Gov. Rounds signs smoking ban bill

Publication Date: 2009-03-19

• Author:Jeff Martin
• Publication:Argus Leader

Gov. Mike Rounds today signed legislation to eliminate smoking in nearly all restaurants and bars in South Dakota, effective July 1.

"We all recognize the health hazards of smoke and secondhand smoke," Rounds said in a statement released moments ago.

"After serious deliberation, the Legislature decided to create a smoke-free environment in restaurants and lounges," Rounds said.

The new law will benefit the health of employees in those businesses and their patrons, Rounds said in the statement.

"This will provide an opportunity for individuals who have not patronized these locations because of the smoke," Rounds said. "I hope they will become new customers for businesses concerned about the loss of patrons."

The legislation makes exceptions for tobacco shops, currently existing cigar bars, and hotel and motel rooms.