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COSTA: STATEWIDE SMOKING BAN TAKES EFFECT
“Protecting and enhancing public health has always been one of my goals as a state Senator,” Costa said. “With this new law, thousands of workers and business patrons across the state will finally be able to breathe clean air and not worry about the potential consequences of secondhand smoke.” In June, Costa voted for the conference committee report of Senate Bill 246 that established the statewide smoking ban. The new law bans cigarette, cigar and pipe smoking in restaurants, office buildings, schools, sports arenas, theatres, and bus and train stations. Limited exceptions in the law allow smoking in some bars and taverns, portions of casino floors, and private clubs. Costa said that the state Department of Health has set up a website to help businesses comply with the new law. Guidance and a downloadable tool kit for public places and workplaces, as well as frequently asked questions and materials useful in planning for the Clean Indoor Air Act, are available at www.health.state.pa.us or by calling 1-877-835-9535. Recognizing that Allegheny County already had a tougher smoking ban in place, Costa has since introduced legislation that would allow the county’s smoking ordinance to supersede the state’s smoking ban. The bill (Senate Bill 1490) is currently under consideration in the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee. # # # |