LAND OF THE FREE, HOME OF THE BRAVE
CELEBRATE THE FOURTH -
Wish Romney had the stones to veto it. Even if it is overridden.
Some fume over smoking ban start date
By Elisabeth J. Beardsley
Friday, June 11, 2004
Most bars and restaurants across the state will go smoke-free immediately after the Fourth of July holiday, under a new smoking ban passed yesterday that includes a pile of special interest exemptions.
Republicans, who staved off the measure for a year, complained the July 5 starting date is ``unachievable'' for businesses and that many would be disadvantaged by the numerous exemptions.
``It's totally unfair,'' said Senate Minority Leader Brian P. Lees (R-East Longmeadow).
The ban, which Gov. Mitt Romney [related, bio] will sign, creates exceptions for private clubs and fraternal organizations - and even nursing homes, after a senator's smoker mother gave him an earful. Civil fines range from $100 to $300.
Private clubs, fraternal organizations and volunteer fire companies are all exempt from the smoking ban in Delaware. But nursing homes, senior centers, and Churches are NOT.