NH Smoking Ban: One Year Later

Publication Date: 2008-09-17

• Publication:www.wmur.com

Wednesday marked one year since a state smoking ban took effect at bars and restaurants.

Businesses and customers said they saw major changes over the past year. Smokers have to step outside or the smoker and the business can face a $100 fine. The state said no fines were issued for violations in the past year.

"It proved to be very positive. It's busier. We did lose regulars. You'll never make everyone happy," said Sarandis Karathanasis from the Red Blazer Restaurant and Pub.

Breathe New Hampshire, one of the organizations that supported the smoking ban, came out to mark the anniversary.

"What's most important is all the workers in restaurants and bars, who have to spend long hours, they're very appreciative and know that their lungs are in a lot better shape than they were if they were still in smoking conditions," Breathe New Hampshire President and CEO Dan Fortin said.

Lisa Guyer, a singer with the band Mama Kicks, said she is breathing easier after his diagnosis with asthma. She spent more than 10 years on three medications until clubs went smoke free.

"I took myself off all three of the medications for a good six to eight months now," Guyer said.