Council eyes resolution opposing it
In a move that could prevent Madison’s upcoming smoking ban in taverns from taking effect, a state lawmaker is expected to introduce a proposal regulating smoking in restaurants statewide.
The law would specifically exclude taverns and bars from the smoking ban.
The bill “is designed to provide a level playing field throughout the state when it comes to smoking in bars and restaurants,” said Mike Prentiss, an aide to Sen. Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, the bill’s author.
“We’re greatly strengthening the existing prohibition on smoking and dining in restaurants, and we also provide a statewide standard for taverns that allows business owners to control their own business plans,” he said.
Ald. Jean MacCubbin, a sponsor of Madison’s smoking ban, has already introduced a resolution to the City Council that opposes any state bills that would pre-empt local control of smoking ordinances.
Originally written By: Judith Davidoff and David Callender
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