January 2, 2007

No Pubilc Smoking In Nevada.. Unless You're Gambling of Course

Sounds like you will continue to be able to enjoy a smoke free environment when you eat, but not necessarily when you play.

"District Judge Douglas Herndon on Thursday upheld the state's anti-smoking law but threw out any criminal penalties associated with lighting up in the wrong places.

Smokers who violate the Nevada Clean Indoor Air Act can still face a $100 civil fine for each infraction, Herndon said.

Supporters of the law, which voters passed last month, hailed the decision.

"It's a victory because exposure to secondhand smoke will be eliminated now. That's a victory for everybody," said Stephen Minagil, a lawyer for the Southern Nevada Health District.

Technically, Herndon's ruling applies only to the businesses that sued to block the law, including PT's Pub and Village Pub and the more than 200 members of the Nevada Tavern Owners Association, but authorities in Southern Nevada and much of the state had been waiting for Herndon's decision before gearing up enforcement.

Thursday's ruling won't become official until the judge signs a written order, which could take up to two weeks.

The law bans smoking in restaurants, grocery stores, bars that serve food and most other indoor gathering places that are open to children. Casino gaming floors, strip bars and standalone bars are exempt."

Read the rest over at the Casino City Times