Smoking ban gets OK

Publication Date: 2005-04-19

• Author:DALE WETZEL
• Publication:The Bismark Tribune

North Dakota's Legislature has approved an indoor smoking ban that covers restaurants and most businesses, an idea lawmakers have staunchly resisted for more than a decade. The anti-smoking measure will take effect Aug. 1 if Gov. John Hoeven signs it, which a spokesman said he is likely to do.

"I feel that we have put into place a very good first start ... for making North Dakota a healthier, safer environment," said Rep. Gary Kreidt, R-New Salem. "Let's make some history in North Dakota today."

The North Dakota House voted 61-32 on Monday to give the bill final legislative approval. The Senate endorsed the measure last week, and it now goes to the governor's office.

"We'll have to study it, but it looks to be close to what the governor has said he supports," Don Canton, a Hoeven spokesman, said Monday.

The legislation is not as strict as many anti-smoking activists wanted. It allows smoking in bars and enclosed, adults-only areas in truck stops.