Panel Endorses Bill to Ban Smoking in Va.

Bell said many restaurant owners have told him they would like to prohibit smoking but are reluctant to do so without a statewide ban because they fear being put at a competitive disadvantage.

He also said the legislation would protect workers as well as customers. He said one-fifth of all restaurant workers are teenagers who often have little or no choice about where they work or whether they are assigned to smoking or nonsmoking sections.

Bell's bill would prohibit smoking in virtually all buildings or enclosed areas frequented by the public. Several House members have submitted similar legislation.

Gov. Timothy M. Kaine has signaled support for a restaurant smoking ban but reluctance to extend the prohibition to all private workplaces. However, Bell has said he is encouraged by Kaine's decision in October to ban smoking in most state offices and state-owned vehicles.

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The bill is SB1161.

On the Net:

Track legislation at http://legis.state.va.us

AP-ES-01-25-07 1459EST