Smoking ban signed by Perdue

Publication Date: 2009-05-19

• Author:Mark Binker
• Publication:Greensboro News and Record

Gov. Bev Perdue has signed a law that bans smoking in bars and restaurants at a ceremony this morning in the state capitol building. The measure will go into effect Jan. 2, 2010.

"It's really an historic moment for North Carolina," Perdue said, giving a nod to the state's deep roots in tobacco. The state remains the country's leading tobacco grower.

Also on hand were legislators who backed the bill, including Rep. Hugh Holliman of Lexington, Pat Hurley of Asheboro and Alma Adams of Greensboro.

The law will also allow local governments to impose some local smoking restrictions.