Unclear details for smoking

Published on Wed, 12 December 2007 6:12 pm

The government decision on the subject of banning smoking in public places beginning with January 1 got laud applauses from health groups. The problem related to lightening up, such as is secondhand smoking, seems to be already resolved and confronted. However, it is more complicated that it seems to be.

Though the ban ought to start in less than 3 weeks, the government hasn’t presented what the definitive sentence fore new law. Simply speaking, the authorities have not clarified the rules concerning smoking in public places, where it remains allowed and what sentences will the offenders face.

Bars, restaurants and businesses concern about this law, because they have less time to enforce the law or to change something in their businesses. The problem is that the government doesn’t explain exactly what the smoking prohibition will mean for those businesses. It is beyond any doubt that prohibition of smoking will affect their revenue.

“That’s always been a slow time,” said Debbie Dunn, who owns Eddie’s Bar and Grill in Granite City. “Now it will be slower.’

Toni Corona, the director of the Madison County Health Department, which will enforce the law locally starting next moth, admits it will difficult.

”There’s a lot of speculation because the rules have not been determined,” she said.