Smoking Ban Approved by Illinois House

By Daniel Hawn

Published on May 04, 2007

In a vote of 73-42, the Illinois House passed the landmark “Smoke Free Illinois Act,” which would require all public indoor places to go smoke-free starting Jan. 1, 2008. Under the bill, a person caught smoking in a public area would be fined between $100 and $250.

The bill made its way to the desk of Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who indicated he will likely sign it. Blagojevich told reporters he would be surprised if there was something he didn’t like about the bill.

The legislation is designed to eliminate the patchwork of various local smoking bans currently in place throughout the state.

Proponents said the proposal would protect the health of workers and patrons who are exposed to second-hand smoke in public places.

Kevin Tynan of the American Lung Association said other states with smoking bans have seen a significant decrease in the occurrences of lung cancer and other cigarette smoke-related diseases.

Opponents of the ban argued that the bill is unfair government interference that will hurt many local businesses and casinos. They said smokers will instead opt for casinos, bars, and restaurants outside of Illinois.

If Blagojevich signs the bill, Illinois would become the 19th state to ban smoking in all public indoor places.

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