Now that restaurants are restricted, county leaders say they will consider creating more no-smoking zones.
Jump to full article: Charlotte (NC) Observer, 2010-01-01
Author: Fred Clasen-Kelly
Intro: Mecklenburg County officials said Thursday they would push to expand a statewide ban on smoking in bars and restaurants that goes into effect during the weekend.
Speaking at a news conference, County Commission Chair Jennifer Roberts and Health Department Director Dr. Wynn Mabry said they would look into proposals to ban smoking in other local workplaces and the entrances to buildings.
"This is a sign of the times," Mabry said of the movement to outlaw smoking in public places. "This will be a progressive process."
The comments came in response to questions about North Carolina's new ban on smoking in bars and restaurants. Starting Saturday, the state will impose a fine of up to $50 for smoking inside bars and restaurants and $200 for business owners who permit it.
Cigar bars and nonprofit private clubs are exempt from the law. Some patio areas outside bars and restaurants are also excluded.
Many Mecklenburg workplaces, government and business offices already prohibit smoking, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, the Charlotte Area Transit System, local colleges and municipal government agencies.
But Mabry said he is worried about factories and warehouses where there are some "hard-core smokers."
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