Smoke at your own (financial) risk

There’s something new on the menu at Pennsylvania restaurants today.

A lack of smoke.

Forget the non-smoking section. Starting today most restaurants will be smoke-free. That’s because the state’s new smoking ban legislation took effect at midnight.

The law forbids smoking in most enclosed workplaces and commercial establishments.

Not all, however. There’s a lengthy list of exceptions, including many bars and taverns, which can demonstrate that food accounts for 20 percent or less of their sales. Hotels also can reserve 25 percent of rooms; private clubs get a waiver; as does up to 25 percent of a casino floor. Relax, Harrah’s puffers. If you enjoy a cigarette while losing your shirt at those one-armed bandits, you’ll be able to continue doing so. At least in part of the casino.

The architect of the bill, state Sen. Stewart Greenleaf, R-Bucks, thinks it’s a good start, but is already looking to close some loopholes.

The war on smoking? Seems like it’s heating up in Pennsylvania.

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