WI Legislators Announce Agreement on Statewide Smoking Ban

By Michael Devane
Managing Editor
Posted 5/7/09

State lawmakers came together Wednesday afternoon in Madison with lobbying groups Smoke Free Wisconsin and the state’s Tavern League to announce an agreement on a smoking ban that would take place July 5, 2010 across the state.

The bill, which should be voted on next week in both the state house and senate, is expected to pass and be signed by Gov. Jim Doyle who has already noted his approval.

"I am pleased that an agreement has been reached in response to my call for a statewide smoking ban,” said Doyle yesterday afternoon.

Violators of the law could be fined $100 to $250 for lighting up in areas designated smoke free.  The bill would override any ordinances already in place by counties or cities.  Also included in the legislation is the ability for bar and restaurant owners to permit smoking in designated outdoor areas.

“No legislation is perfect and no compromise will satisfy everyone; but the compromise those of us here have agreed upon I feel is a good one and I will be urging my Senate colleagues to approve it,” said Senate President Fred Risser, D-Madison, author of the smoking ban.

Although Risser and other supporters of the ban wanted the legislation to take effect as soon as it was signed in to law, they will have to wait until next year.  The idea is to give time for bars and restaurants to make the necessary adjustments.

In order for someone to be fined the establishment must ask the offender to put out their cigarette.  Businesses can be fined as well if they knowingly allow smoking indoors and do not ask the smoker to stop.

                                                                                Photo: Scott Luostari