It could be just a matter of days, before the Wisconsin Legislature approves a statewide smoking ban. Public hearings are taking place today and tomorrow in Madison. State Representative Jon Richards says he hopes the health committee he chairs will pass the ban Friday and then forward the measure for a final vote next week. According to Richards, smoking bans are popular where enacted.
“And that’s holding true here in Wisconsin (where more than 30 communities have approved bans). Even in a place like Eau Claire, in the north, the smoking ban is pulling in over 70% approval right now. In other states, people are just stepping outside bars and restaurants if they need to smoke, or they’re just curtailing their smoking,” Richards says.
The plan before lawmakers would impose a $300 dollar fine for each violation. All workplaces would have to comply, and they’d have three months to do so.
Opponents of smoking bans, including Milwaukee Alderman Bob Donovan, claim they'll negatively impact certain businesses that have long served customers who light-up, such as taverns.
Donovan is also criticizing state lawmakers for holding today's public hearing on the proposed ban, after giving the public only 24 hours notice.
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