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 (AP) - Olmsted County commissioners have
approved a workplace smoking ban that includes bars and public transportation.

      After a meeting at the Mayo Civic Center lasting more than four
hours, commissioners approved the ban on a 5-2 vote Tuesday night.

      Besides bars, the new ordinance also makes taxis, limos and
shuttle buses smoke-free. The ban goes into effect June 1.
Businesses could face criminal charges if they don't enforce the
new ban.

      Opponents think the ban will hurt businesses in Olmsted County.

Commission Jim Bier voted against the ban.

      "Some of my representation is the city of Byron, and I think
that out in Byron people will leave Byron and go out to Kasson
probably to do their business," he said. "I think it's going to
have a negative impact on the businesses in Byron."

      While some officials said businesses might feel an initial
effect, others believe the new ordinance will boost efforts for a
statewide smoking ban.

      "The word that I've got from the Legislature, as I've talked to
them, is we need your support," said Commissioner Judy Ohly, who
supported the ordinance. "Pass this so we can move forward."

      Commissioners also changed the buffer zone of how close a person
can smoke to a workplace, to 15 feet from 25 feet.

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Besides bars, the new ordinance also makes taxis, limos and
shuttle buses smoke-free. The ban goes into effect June 1.
Businesses could face criminal charges if they don't enforce the
new ban.


Olmsted County board OKs workplace smoking ban

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