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New smoking ban in bars and restaurants in Virginia
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Photo: AP Rob Carr, boston.com
Governor of Virginia Timothy M. Kaine recently signed a ban on smoking in bars and restaurants in Virginia. The legislation is due to go in effect on December 1, 2009 and is meant to protect workers and customers from the dangerous effects of second-hand smoke. Smoking will be prohibited in restaurants and bars in Virginia with the exception of restaurants that have smoking areas. These restaurants must allow smoking only in the smoking area and if the restaurant contains more than 50 seats it will be required to provide a satisfactory non-smoking area for its customers. The ban will be enforced through regular inspections by environmental health specialists from the local health department. The law will also give employees the right not to work in areas of a restaurant where smoking is allowed, giving them the choice of protecting their health without jeopardizing their jobs. For more information about the new law and other frequently asked questions please visit the Virginia Department of Health website.
