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For Immediate Release
January 3, 2007
Contact: Wendy Waren
Tel: (800) 256-4572
E-mail: wendyw@lra.org
LRA RECAPS NON SMOKING LAW
As of Monday, January 1, 2007, restaurateurs will not allow patrons to smoke inside their restaurants. The law passed during the 2006 Regular Session of the Louisiana Legislature and was signed by Governor Blanco. This law prohibits smoking in restaurants, other places of public accommodation and most places of employment.
“We are dedicated to educating LRA members and non-members on the law and its impact on their businesses and their patrons,” said Jim Funk, CEO/President, LRA. “Restaurants in Louisiana are known for providing unique and memorable experiences for diners and we encourage restaurateurs to comply with these new regulations.”
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR RESTAURANTS:
• Restaurants are required to post “No Smoking” signs (or placards with the international no-smoking symbol).
• Restaurants are required to remove all ashtrays.
• No smoking will be allowed inside the restaurant, even in the bar area and areas designated for video poker devices.
• Restaurants with outdoor dining areas may allow smoking outside only.
• Any state official (state or local) that can issue civil fines can enforce this ban and fine patrons who smoke inside restaurants (i.e., state police, local police, sheriffs, justices of the peace). Though restaurants should not be held legally liable if their patrons smoke, the enforcement provision of this law may be interpreted differently by the various agencies that will enforce the ban. Restaurants will be held legally liable, however, if their employees smoke in the restaurant.
• After the media attention that this ban has garnered, most non-smoking customers will demand strict enforcement of this law.
• This law allows for local ordinances that have stricter provisions than the state law.
• Establishments licensed by the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control (ATC) as Class A-G establishments (bars) are currently exempt from the smoking ban.
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