Governor Richardson Signs the Statewide Smoking Ban

Today Governor Richardson signs into law the Statewide Smoking Ban. The law bans smoking in restaurants, bars, stores and workplaces. The ban takes effect on June 15. According to the Free New Mexican, details:

“Smoking would be banned statewide in bars, restaurants, stores and workplaces if Gov. Bill Richardson signs a bill that cleared the Legislature on Friday.

If the proposal is enacted, New Mexico will become the 17th state — joining the neighboring states of Arizona and Colorado — with a law establishing a broad smoke-free policy.

Thirteen New Mexico communities, including Santa Fe and Albuquerque, have imposed smoking bans. The legislation would permit cities and counties to implement stronger bans, but local restrictions couldn’t be less than provided for in the bill.

The legislation provides some exceptions where smoking could continue, including retail tobacco stores, cigar bars, casinos, bingo parlors, private and fraternal clubs, one-person offices not generally open to the public, hotel rooms where smoking is allowed, sites for American Indian ceremonies and private homes, except when they’re used for commercial child or adult care.”

Finally I can go out to a bar and not have every cell in my body permeated with cigarette smoke.

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