Categories
· Cross-Border/Crime
· Smokefree Policies
· Dining/Entertainment
USA, by State
· New Jersey
· New York
· Pennsylvania
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Jump to full article: AP, 2003-08-02
Author: JUDY LIN, Associated Press Writer
Intro: Like other New York residents who enjoy a smoke with their drink or meal but can't because of that state's new law, Lang, 46, and her husband have decided to trade their Jamestown, N.Y., bar for one in northern Pennsylvania.
Since the ban went into effect, bars and restaurants along the New York state line say they have seen more New Yorkers looking to light up, creating a boon for establishments in Massachusetts, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
New York's statewide smoking ban became law July 24, following a New York City ban. In addition to bars, restaurants and nightclubs, the state ended smoking in off-track betting parlors, bowling alleys and company cars. The ban is among the toughest in the nation.
Some New York smokers, like the Langs, have simply left the state for more hospitable locations.
"We're going to make a habit of it because we won't go to any bar where you can't smoke," said Rick Lang, 52.
Immediately after New York City's ban went into effect, New Jersey restaurants near the Big Apple experienced a spike in business, said Deborah Dowdell, executive vice president of the New Jersey Restaurant Association. . .
"Our members have reported a surge in business," Dowdell said. "We're in close dialogue with leading restaurateurs in New York City and they continue to report their sales have suffered as much as 20 to 50 percent."
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