Michigan
Most of Michigan’s workplaces, restaurants, and bars became smokefree on May 1, 2010!
On December 10, 2009 the state legislature passed the bill, and Governor Jennifer Granholm signed it on December 18th at the Michigan Brewing Company in Lansing. Congratulations to all the individuals, organizations, and policymaker champions that helped achieve this public health victory.
Information about the law:
Visit the MI Department of Health's webpage: www.michigan.gov/smokefreelaw or call 866-59-SMOKE. You can also check out the Michigan Campaign for Smokefree Air's webpage: http://www.makemiairsmokefree.com/.
The law will be entitled the "Dr. Ron Davis Act" - a fitting tribute for ANR's dear friend and colleague Ronald (Ron) Davis, MD, who passed away November 6, 2008 after a courageous 10-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Ron had an illustrious career in medicine and public health. He served as the director of the Centers for Disease Control’s Office on Smoking and Health (1987-1991), was the President of the American Medical Association (2007–2008), and served as Chief Medical Officer for the Michigan Department of Public Health. His most recent position was as Director, Center for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention for the Henry Ford Health 
System in Detroit, Michigan. Ron was a member of Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights since 1992 and was a wonderful partner in the effort to bring smokefree air to Michigan. Everyone at ANR misses Ron dearly -- we keep his passion and enthusiasm for improving public health in our hearts as we continue to work toward a smokefree society.
The job to protect ALL workers is not over yet!
Unfortunately, casino floors were exempted from the law due to politics and gaming industry lobbyists. The law is a major, historic step forward and will protect the health of millions in Michigan, but it’s important to remember that our job is not done yet because it still leaves behind the people MOST exposed to secondhand smoke and MOST in need of a law to ensure clean air in the workplace. Casino workers should not have to die from toxic air in their workplace.
Michigan law preempts local governments from enacting smoking restrictions in restaurants and bars, due to a 2001 ruling by a Michigan appeals court based on Marquette's law. Many cities and counties have smokefree laws in effect to the extent permitted under preemption (meaning these local laws cover non-hospitality worksites like factories, offices, and government buildings. Read more about current tobacco-related legislation in Michigan.
Michigan's 2009-2010 Legislative Session: January 14, 2009 - December 31, 2010 (est.) In Recess: December 31, 2009 - January 12, 2010 (est.)
State Quitline Number: 1-800-537-5666
American Cancer Society Quitline: 800-QUIT-NOW (800-784-8669)
| Smokefree News |
| Some West Michigan veterans want smoking ban changed The state's smoking ban is four months old and some local veterans are fighting to get it changed. The group says its rights were taken away. Monday, during a rally at the Grand Rapids Home for Veterans, they asked legislators to work with them, to change the new law. Winter is just around the corner and soon, they will have to go outside to smoke. "People are going to get hurt. They're going to slip and fall. Freeze to death out there. There's going to be pneumonia problems, you name it," says Veteran Randy Fortune. The group of smokers wants veterans' homes to be exempt from the state's smoking ban. "I feel like they've come into my house and told me I can't smoke in my own house," says Veteran Charles Smyth. ... Portage mulls smoking ban in parks that would include picnic and ... PORTAGE — A smoking ban at city parks has again been proposed in Portage. The Park Board is suggesting a smoking ban in all playground and picnic shelter areas at the city’s 17 parks. The recommendation will get more study by the city administration and would have to clear the City Council to take effect ... Flint City Council addresses open carry law, proposed smoking ban at meeting ...The council also voted to postpone a proposed Hurley Medical Center smoking ban that would include Hurley property as well as any adjacent public streets and sidewalks. Council members said they would like to see the ban changed so that it doesn’t include public right-of-ways. ... Health department says private clubs named most in smoking complaints When Michigan lawmakers considered -- and approved -- a statewide ban on public smoking, those raising the most adamant objections included people who visit private clubs. Now, a little more than three months after the law went into effect, St. Clair County officials said private clubs are logging the most complaints about people who continue to smoke there. The law prohibits tobacco smoking in public places, including workplaces, restaurants and their patios, bars, government facilities and public meetings. Exempt are cigar bars and tobacco-specialty retail stores, as well as casinos established before May 1, 2010. The Moose Lodge, 3520 Military St. in Port Huron, was named in four complaints to the St. Clair County Health Department, all of which refer to someone smoking on the deck. Officials there refused to comment about the complaints. ... Hurley Medical Center proposes smoking ban for hospital campus; adjacent public streets FLINT, Michigan -- Several Flint City Council members are wary about a proposed Hurley Medical Center smoking ban that would include public sidewalks and streets adjoining Hurley property. Hurley officials are asking the council to approve a city ordinance that would ban smoking on Hurley's campus, as well as any "publicly owned property contiguous to a hospital campus," including but not limited to sidewalks, lawns, streets and alleys ... Detroit Housing Commission adopts smoke-free policy for all properties, effective January 1, 2011 Public Smoking Ban Cuts Lottery Sales - School Funding Down $10 Million While firm numbers are not yet final, indications are that Michigan's new workplace smoking ban will affect sales of Michigan Lottery club games, especially Keno, and could mean a drop in school funding from those games alone by $10 million. The executive director of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association said his members are clearly noting a drop in things like Keno sales as many are seeing less customer traffic since the ban took effect on May 1. The workplace smoking ban also means that except for the Detroit casinos and some locations like cigar clubs, smoking is outlawed in bars and restaurants. One legislator who helped drive the move to ban smoking said there was no question the ban would have affected things like Keno sales, but that based on the experiences in other states some of that customer traffic should come back. Sen. Raymond Basham (D-Taylor) also said the new requirements may mean local establishments have to change their marketing to draw customers back in. Andi Brancato, spokesperson for the Michigan Lottery, said indications now are that club game sales for the 2009-10 fiscal year will be some $35 million less than the $548 million the games sold in the 2008-09 fiscal year. Michigan veterans fight for right to smoke Smoking tobacco is legal. They own, run and risk failure at their post's tavern in tiny Baraga at the base of the Keweenaw Bay in the Upper Peninsula. So they get to decide whether patrons get to smoke. That wasn't an issue before May 1, when a statewide ban on smoking in places of employment took effect (with a few, minor exceptions and one major one: Detroit's three casinos). Now Foucault-Funke Post 444, where the ashtrays never came off the tables and smokers line the bar each afternoon and evening, is at the center of what could be a decisive showdown for the new state law and -- as the vets see it -- for the individual liberty and self-government they fought to defend. Earlier this month, the post sued the Western Upper Peninsula Health Department to strike down as unconstitutional the department's order to end indoor smoking. "It's not about the smoking," said post spokesman Joseph O'Leary. "It's about the right to choose to allow the use of a legal substance on our property." ... Sylvia Rector: New smoking ban means great things for Mt. Chalet in Royal Oak But some, like Annette Berman, were quietly hoping it might work the other way -- that customers who didn't smoke might come in more often if the haze ever lifted. She and her brother, Harvy Berman, own the landmark Mt. Chalet restaurant and bar on Woodward at 14 Mile in Royal Oak, a place that for years was known for its well-prepared food and, unfortunately, its smoke-filled air. "I added every smoke-eater device known to man," she said, but none of them really did the trick. She knew the problem was costing her some business, but friends warned against going smoke-free because so many of her regulars, obviously, were smokers. That's why she thought the new law might be the answer. . . . She was totally unprepared for what happened. Food sales doubled. "The ban went into effect on May 1, and the first month was crazy ridiculous. We sold more food than I've sold in years on the first two weekends. I would say the first month, they were up 100%," she said. And it made a difference. With the extra income, "I was able to start doing a lot of things I wanted to do around here." . . . Protest over smoking ban Sault Tribe Housing Authority offers smoke-free housing The following is from a July 20th SooToday.com news story: 80% of locals favor smoking ban in survey of 10000 Senator introduces legislation to expand smoking ban in Michigan State Sen. Ray Basham said he hopes to finish off one more goal before he leaves office. Basham, who fought for years to get a smoking ban approved in Michigan, introduced legislation last week to make Detroit casinos smoke-free and extend to casino workers the same protection bar and restaurant patrons and employees have from secondhand smoke. Michigan enacted a smoking ban in most public places in May, but casinos were excluded. "Secondhand smoke doesn't make any exceptions or exemptions, and Michigan law shouldn’t either,"said Basham, who is term-limited this year. "The legislature finally took action to protect patrons and workers in the state’s bars and restaurants from secondhand smoke exposure, and the men and women who work in the state's casinos should be extended the same consideration for their health." ... MI Bars Planning Another Lottery Boycott To Protest Smoking Ban Another boycott of Michigan Lottery games is being planned by bar owners around the state. An estimated 500 bars took part in the one-day boycott of Club Keno and other games earlier this month as a protest against the new public smoking ban, which owners say has greatly hurt their businesses. Steve Mace, with the group Amend the Michigan Smoking Ban, tells us that he figures the state lost out on at least a million dollars in lotto sales because of the bars' boycott...but that's not the only reason why it was viewed as a success. He says the boycott helped focus some media attention on problems with the ban. The Michigan Lottery has downplayed the effects of the boycott, so Mace says the bars are doing another one: Smoking ban opponents gather More than 100 opponents of the state smoking ban joined Wednesday at Battle Creek's Polish National Alliance in protesting what many said was a violation of their constitutional rights. "This is supposed to be a free country," said Art Heagney, 61, of Battle Creek. "(Smoking is) stinky, it affects everything around you, but it's a right." Wearing T-shirts emblazoned with the words "I'm for smokers rights," PNA members Gordon Turner and Jim Worthington led the grassroots effort. Opponents to the ban said they wanted to reverse or amend the law, which prohibits smoking on patios, decks and other attached structures in which food or beverages are served. They said the law has gone too far. A quick survey of local bar owners in attendance revealed most lost between 20 and 40 percent in revenue since the ban was enacted May 1. Some bars not feeling the burn after smoking ban Survey: More than 75 percent favor Mich. smoking ban More than 75 percent of people surveyed by the state Department of Community Health favored Michigan's smoking ban, according to results of a study released this morning. Researchers with the agency completed the public opinion survey before the law, which bans smoking in bars, restaurants and other public venues, went into affect May 1. The survey of 10,030 people was distributed to clients receiving services at local health departments in 80 of Michigan's 83 counties between March 1 and April 23. If they can't smoke, then they can't play An Internet campaign is urging bar owners to protest the 6-week-old statewide smoking ban by boycotting their own lottery sales of Keno, Pull Tabs and other state games on Saturday, the day before Father's Day. Steve Mace, an organizer, said the ban has badly hurt business -- a point the state concedes -- at many bars, contrary to news media reports that it has had little effect. Mace of Beverly Hills is a member of Protect Private Property Rights in Michigan, which he said has recruited at least 200 Michigan bars to join the boycott from 11 a.m. Saturday to 2 a.m. Sunday. The group uses e-mail and a Facebook site called Michigan Lottery Boycott to spread the word. It says the one-day boycott could cost the state $18 million in lost lottery revenue. Mace said the state should allow some smoking at bars and restaurants. "Let's sit down and talk about this rationally, because Michiganders are losing their jobs," Mace said. ... Michigan Stadium goes smoke-free this season Ann Arbor bars report no loss of business one month after Michigan's smoking ban One month after state law barred smoking in their establishments, tavern and restaurant owners around Ann Arbor are not reporting any dramatic downturn in their business. And the reaction among patrons -- while still going through an adjustment period - ranged from joy (usually nonsmokers) to resignation (usually smokers). "I love it," said Sara Gnagi of Brighton, a nonsmoker who was having a drink one recent night at Conor O'Neill's on Main Street. "I have a much easier time breathing." Her friend Jennifer Hall, who said in the past she typically only smoked at bars, didn't mind the new restrictions. ... Statewide Smoking Ban Gets Rave Reviews It's been one month since a smoking ban in bars and restaurants took affect in Michigan. So far, it seems smokers are getting used to the new rules. Most we spoke to love the change. They say it's nice not eat when people are smoking and to go home not smelling like smoke. Some area businesses even reported a boost in business. The State Department of Community Health has yet to receive a single complaint or file any violations. County Health Departments haven't seen any either. ... Mich. law prompts calls to 'quit smoking' hotline The state says more calls are coming in to a hotline to help people quit smoking in the wake of a new Michigan law that prohibits smoking at workplaces including bars and restaurants. The Michigan Department of Community Health says Monday that 20 percent more calls have been made to the state's hotline since April 26. An average of more than 30 people per day are using the hotline to get started with efforts to stop smoking. ... Livingston County Firms Up Restrictions On Smokers 5/4/10 - A state law banning smoking in most workplaces in Michigan may already be the law, but the Livingston County Board of Commissioners were crossing their t’s and dotting the i’s Monday night when they approved an amendment to the smoking ban for county buildings and vehicles. According to Commission Chair Maggie Jones, the new language requires smokers to remain a reasonable distance from facilities and their entrances to prevent second-hand smoke from affecting those entering or exiting the building, and to make sure it does not enter the building through windows or vents. ... Poll: 76 percent in favor of Michigan smoking ban A new poll conducted by our reporting partners at WSJM says around three quarters of people are in favor of it. In the poll, the leading response was 76 percent of people saying they are a non-smoker and appreciate the new ban. ... The smoking ban and restaurants: 'Now I can go and not worry about the air' We asked over the weekend if anyone noticed any difference now that Michigan's smoking ban has taken effect. Many readers said they did. newtech enjoyed a smoke-free meal: "Yes, I noticed. I went to a restaurant close to my home where I rarely go because of the smoking, but now I can go and and not worry about the air. Thank you Michigan for giving me the choice of all the restaurants and bars from which to choose. ... Smokers say state ban a drag As they sat at the bar in Hoot's Lounge in Corktown on Friday night, Detroiters Maria Prado and Jesus Moreno celebrated the last evening they would be surrounded by people smoking around them. "While we're eating, that's when it most affects us," said Prado of the smoke. She looks forward to the "healthy environment" she and Moreno, her non-smoking husband, will have when they go out to eat after the state's smoking ban begins at 6 a.m. today. Mark Chapman, 40, of Dearborn Heights on the other hand said he fears the ban will hurt his business. Although not a bar owner, Chapman has been selling Detroit baseball caps in bars around the metro area for the last nine years. Businesses, patrons happy to say goodbye to smoking Businesses, health officials and non-smokers alike were greeting a smoking ban for Michigan's bars, restaurants and other public establishments that went in effect at 6 a.m. Saturday. Patrons of area businesses were finding some -- like the Park Bar on Park near Comerica Park -- already were posting "no smoking" signs and removing ashtrays. "I'm divided," said Jerry Belanger, owner of the Park. "I hate giving up our liberties for some state-forced behavior modification, but, hey, I like breathing in clean air. So I'm for it. If someone tries to smoke, we politely tell them 'no'." VIDEO: Non-Smokers Enjoying Smoke-Free Bars The smoke has officially cleared inside Michigan bars and restaurants. The statewide smoking ban went into effect at 6am Saturday morning. One local group went wheeling around town to celebrate Michigan going smoke-free. Adrienne Domas is kicking back, enjoying her weekend at some local watering holes, but something is missing from the air. . . . So Domas and friends grabbed their bikes and hit the streets of Lansing for a pub crawl to visit local bars they wouldn't have necessarily gone before. Adrienne Domas: "A lot of us don't ever go to some of these places because they were too smoky, and now we're going to start coming to these places.' Domas says she wants to show bar owners lots of people do support the smoking ban and that business may light up now that it's in place. Adrienne Domas: "We've been saying multiple times, many times, when we've gone out just on a weekend, we can't wait until May first, this place will be so much nicer after May first when it's not smoky." Michigan to eat, drink smoke-free Saturday At 6 a.m. Saturday, Michigan joins 37 other states that have indoor workplace smoking bans. Most of the attention has been on how it will change the culture and success of Michigan bars and restaurants. Here's a look at the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke Free Air Law. ... Smoke-free era to begin in Michigan At the Garden Bowl, bowlers have smoked since the first gutter ball in 1913. Bowling and smoking are so intertwined that a player is as likely to be clutching a cigarette in one hand as a bowling ball in the other. Until Saturday. ... Hookah Bar Owners Plan Lawsuit Against Ban EARBORN, Mich. (WXYZ) - Over a hundred hookah lounge and restaurant owners are banding together to fight the smoking ban, which takes effect this Saturday. They're concerned that the ban will force them out of business. They also want to know why they weren't granted an exemption from the ban like the owners of cigar bars and lounges. Under the new law cigar bars will be allowed to serve food and allow cigar smoking, but hookah bars will not be allowed to serve food. Many of the owners say they feel like the lack of a hookah exemption is an attack on their Arabic culture. They say the device has been a symbol of Arabic culture for hundreds of years, and that many of their customers only come because of the setting the hookah helps provide. ... Hillside Lanes ahead of the game after imposing smoking ban a year ago Aemisegger, owner of Hillside Lanes in Hillsdale since 1981, declared the bowling alley smoke-free one year ago, and he's glad he did. "I wish I had done it sooner," Aemisegger said. "I got so tired of coming to work and breathing that stale smoke smell. I just thought for the longevity of the business, it was time for a change. "Sometimes, a business has to reinvent itself." Aemisegger's smoke-free business is a window into what other bowling centers might expect when the state-imposed smoking ban goes into effect Saturday. "We did lose a few league bowlers, but what we gained in open bowling and outings far exceeded what we lost," Aemisegger said. "Our total lineage was up for the past year. We're getting families back into the bowling center." ... Mich. hookah fanciers fume about smoking ban Yet there is one bright spot - a bustling stretch of Warren Avenue where Mideastern-style cafes, markets and shops provide a taste of Beirut or Damascus for one of the largest Arab-American communities in the nation. Come May 1, when the law goes into effect, Dearborn's cafes will have to choose between serving food or allowing smoking. Hookahs will be welcome only in specialty tobacco stores. Tough tobacco restrictions have been imposed in many states in recent years, threatening some smoky nightspots but usually leaving the local social life unchanged. But in perhaps no other city does the aroma of fragrant smoke, the bubbling of water pipes and the tang of Arab dishes blend so intrinsically with the local lifestyle and economy. In a relatively small business district, more than two dozen cafes offer hookah. . . . "In our culture, alcohol is forbidden, and this is an area where there are a lot of Muslims," said Latifeh Sabbagh, a social worker and officer with the local Young Muslim Association. Smoking hookah "is something for them to do. It's their winding down." ... Cigar bars around Michigan get OK to sell food, drinks Michigan's statewide smoking ban, which is to take effect May 1, will allow established cigar bars to sell food and drink, the state Department of Community Health (DCH) announced Friday. But the law will not allow any new smoking cigar bars; they had to have been established by April 1. And patrons in cigar bars can't smoke cigarettes, pipes, so-called little cigars or any other tobacco products. Only tobacco-wrapped cigars that retail for more than $1 each can be smoked in cigar bars. . . . To qualify for the exemption, cigar bars must prove that at least 10% of their monthly income is from the sale of cigars and the rental of humidors. "To fail to recognize how cigar bars will generate the other 90% of their gross annual income would be absurd," DCH director Janet Olszewski wrote in a memo Friday. She said the Legislature intended to allow eating and drinking in cigar bars when it wrote the new law. Tobacco shops and hookah lounges can't serve food and drinks, according to the ban. Michigan cigar bars exempt in smoking ban Legislation review allows cigar smoking with provisions Statement from the Michigan Dept. of Community Health: "After further analysis of the law, the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has concluded in a released memorandum that if cigar bars meet required criteria, they are exempt from the smoking ban and will be allowed to serve food and drink. "In order to qualify for this exemption, the cigar bar must file an affidavit with the MDCH on or before May 31, 2010 stating that the cigar bar was in existence on May 1, 2010. Cigar bars must continue to file an affidavit with the MDCH on Jan. 31 each year to qualify for exemption. Cigar bars must meet the following requirements ... With new state smoking ban coming, commissioners move to Genesee ... Sault Tribe Housing Authority adopts smoke-free policy; Fifth tribal housing authority in nation to do so EDITORIAL: Smoking ban is a victory for public health The days are dwindling down to a precious few for those who like to light up at their favorite watering hole. For the rest of us, May 1 can't come soon enough. That is the day smoking will be prohibited in almost all Michigan bars and restaurants. Some complain the new law snuffs out a personal right, and restaurant owners plead that their businesses will be ruined if they can't cater to smokers. . . . But the overwhelming reality is smoking and the impact of secondhand smoke are a huge health hazard. The public -- in Michigan and in 37 other states -- have said they are tired of going into restaurants and bars filled with a smoky haze. On May 1, this is going to be better for everyone. ... A combination of factors -- not the least of which is a dwindling population of tobacco users and successful precedents in other cities and states -- has many Ann Arbor restaurateurs looking forward to the change. "My place will get busier when this nonsmoking comes in, I guarantee it," said Bill Fraser, the owner of Fraser's Pub on Packard. Staff there will spend half a week prior to the May 1 smoking ban cleaning the restaurant and repainting to get rid of three decades worth of accumulated smoke odors, he said. "If I did it myself, and other bars didn't do it, it would probably hurt me," Fraser said of going smoke-free. "But because all bars have to do it, it's going to be a big plus." ... Questions still cloud smoking ban Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson dropped a bomb Thursday morning, saying he was suing to stop the state from starting a workplace, bar and restaurant smoking ban May 1. Six hours later, slammed with a torrent of criticism, Patterson told assembled reporters in Farmington Hills, in effect, "never mind." His office got an earful in more than 100 e-mails and phone calls. He said he asked his assistants about reaction and both raised their hands with thumbs down. "Not one said, 'Attaboy, Brooks,' " he said. "If I don't have public support for what I'm doing, I'm going to reverse myself," he said. ... Kent County won't fully enforce new smoking ban, state says Kent County's Health Department has said it won't enforce the state's smoking ban at establishments that don't offer food service because the $65,000 in state funding that's being offered over two years would not cover costs. Kent County will be responsible for enforcement only at places that sell food and drinks. ... Patterson: Oakland County won't enforce smoking ban Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson this afternoon reversed himself, withdrawing his plan to sue against a statewide public smoking ban.The move came after an overwhelming number of phone calls from constituents who opposed what he was doing. Watch freep.com for developments. What was reported earlier today Smoking Ban: Some Wonder If State Ready Some business owners and even local health departments are wondering if Michigan is really ready to go smoke free. The ban starts in less than a month. Come May first, Michigan's ban on smoking in restaurants and bars takes effect. The Grand Tavern and thousands of similar establishments will instantly become smoke free. "Curious who's going to come in and enforce it, and who's going to write tickets. Do they want me to call the local police if somebody lights up a cigarette," Mario Lucaj, owner of the Grand Tavern. "They're not letting us know anything." County health departments are receiving no funds from the state to enforce the new smoking ban. ... Cloud of confusion envelops Michigan smoking ban With less than a month before Michigan's smoking ban goes into effect, the state isn't sure who should enforce the law, and counties are warning it shouldn't be them. The impasse comes as the state is fielding hundreds of calls from owners of restaurants to pool halls, even hookah bars, looking for clarity on how to comply with what becomes law on May 1. Michigan will become the 38th state to limit smoking in public places including government buildings, workplaces, bars and restaurants. esides enforcement questions, there's confusion over other aspects of the law, such as how big "no smoking" signs should be, whether charity events fall under the statute, the dimensions of outdoor smoking areas and who will monitor work forces. ... Butt out:Zorba's owners glad to go smoke-free early CLAWSON -- The words on the marquee, and on signs taped to the doors, let Zorba's customers know the restaurant is now "smoke-free." But the better indicator comes when customers walk inside and take a seat, according to owner Alex Dreshaj. The restaurant at 309 N. Main in downtown Clawson went smoke-free Jan. 1, five months before the May 1 statewide ban on smoking in public places takes affect. "You can finally smell the food," Dreshaj's wife Gjina said, half-joking. Veterans hope to make clubs exempt from state smoking ban …army veteran Mike Stapleton said clubs where those who fought to defend the freedoms of this nation gather should be exempt from the state's smoking ban, which takes effect May 1. "It's wrong for lawmakers to tell us private clubs what to do," said Stapleton, 61, who served in the Vietnam and Desert Storm wars. Stapleton, of Jenison, and others at American Legion Post 179 in Grandville have signed a petition to get all veteran clubs exempt from the law passed in December. The ban applies to all bars, restaurants and workplaces. The only exemptions are for cigar bars and the gaming floors of existing casinos. The petition drive, being coordinated on the east and west sides of the state, so far has 1,500 signatures from members of American Legion posts, Veterans of Foreign Wars and other clubs. ... No butts about it at MIS track BROOKLYN, Mich. - When Michigan International Speedway opens its gates for the stock-car racing season in June, the only smoke encountered in the grandstand area should be that from the race winner spinning his tires in celebration. The track will go smoke-free this year in all of its grandstands, mezzanines, concession areas, restroom buildings, suites and chalets. The ban seems consistent with a state-wide measure barring smoking in public places that takes effect in Michigan May 1. ... Manistee, Michigan becomes 33rd housing commission in state to adopt a smoke-free policy for some of its buildings MELVINDALE: City bans smoking in public parks Henry Street resident Tom Moore no longer will be able to smoke around the diamond where his granddaughter plays T-ball. The City Council approved a smoking ban in city parks Wednesday, making it unlawful for a person to smoke within 30 feet of bleachers or backstops at baseball and softball fields. ... MELVINDALE: City might ban smoking at ball diamonds The City Council is revisiting an ordinance to ban smoking on baseball fields. The ordinance would prohibit smoking within 30 feet of any bleachers and near backstops at baseball fields within public parks. A similar ordinance failed after being proposed in July by Councilwoman Stacy Striz. . . . "The first time around there was a lot of questions about it, people opposing it in the audience saying you cannot solicit good manners," she said. "I think that the smoking ban through Michigan kind of made people think there is something we need to do." ... Chesaning Council looks at smoking ban ordinance CHESANING - The Village Council Tuesday began consideration of a new ordinance to regulate smoking on business properties. The ordinance, when complete, will work in conjuction with the state's new workplace smoking ban, which goes into effect May 1. The Council's initial ideas include a ban on smoking during company time, unless an employee is on a break. The proposal also would affect people who work outdoors. Village Council Trustee, Damion Frasier said, “Unless, you're on break, no smoking. Even if [working] outside.” Frasier said he has looked for an ordinance that would cover smoking bans, but there are none. He said he has spoken to three lawyers from three communities on how they handled the issue within their cities. Two of the lawyers said their cities allow employees to smoke outside of the building or in their own personal vehicle. But only on a person's break time. The lawyers' names and locations were not provided. ... Editorial: Why are casinos exempt from smoking ban? The Michigan Legislature passed a long-delayed smoking ban after considerable debate and controversy. The ban will take effect in May. It applies to all bars, restaurants and work places, except for the Detroit casinos, cigar bars, tobacco specialty stores, home offices and motor vehicles. . . . The exceptions listed in the law make reasonable sense, other than the one for casinos. It begs the question why? What kind of message does that send? First, it makes it seem as though gambling is some kind activity that warrants special treatment. Admittedly, it's a good source of taxes and if people want to take test their luck, then fine, that should be their choice. But the exception, in a sense, promotes gambling and it's urging people with one addiction - smoking - to maybe test their will power from another potential addiction. But the bigger message is that the Detroit casino lobby is strong and has a powerful influence on legislators. The effect is so blatant, it's scary. ... Breathe in a healthier state Recently, Gov. Jennifer Granholm signed a bill that bans smoking in all public places beginning in May. Michigan joins the ranks of states that have taken a strong step toward protecting the health of their communities by making bars, restaurants and other public places smoke-free. We know that secondhand smoke causes premature death and disease. For example, exposed kids are at an increased risk for sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), acute respiratory infections, ear infections and other illnesses.Also, in 2005, California's Environmental Protection Agency estimated that exposure to secondhand smoke kills more than 3,400 adult nonsmokers from lung cancer, approximately 46,000 adult nonsmokers from coronary heart disease, and an estimated 430 babies from SIDS. Earlier this year, the Institute of Medicine reported that secondhand smoke exposure could trigger heart attacks and that smoke-free laws reduce hospitalizations for heart attacks. So with the passage of this law, Michigan will be saving lives and protecting its citizens. The comprehensive nature of the new law is noteworthy. Unfortunately, too many people still incorrectly believe that opening a window, sitting in a separate area, or using a fan protects bystanders from the harmful effects of exposure to secondhand smoke. A 2006 report by the U.S. surgeon general concluded there is no risk-free level of exposure. The only protection is through 100% smoke-free environments. ...Blowing smoke No big deal. That's the response from some Plymouth bar and restaurant managers to Michigan's new workplace smoking law, which will ban smoking inside their establishments come next May. . . . But, Zajac added, Station 885 will be planning an outdoor smoking area that fits the requirements of the law. To his understanding, he said, any outdoor smoking area must be more than 50 feet from a door. "In the long run it's going to be a good thing, and I don't think it's going to affect too many businesses," said Kevin Khashan, who, with brother Sam, owns Sean O'Callaghan's, a tavern on Penniman. ... Granholm signs smoking ban legislation The ban will start May 1st making it illegal to smoke in restaurants, bars, hotels and any place that serves food and drinks. Governor Granholm signed the bill into law Friday at a Lansing brew pub. Lawmakers finished passing the ban last week. Detroit casinos, cigar bars, tobacco specialty stores, home offices and motor vehicles are exempt. Michigan is now the 38th state to limit smoking in public places. Ron Robinson is the director of hotel operations here at Cambria Suites in Traverse City as well as the Best Western next door. He says the new smoking ban that goes into effect May 1st, is not necessarily a bad thing for hotel business. ... Michigan smoking ban to get governor's signature today What to know about state's smoking ban QUESTION: Starting May 1, where can't I smoke? ANSWER: Anyplace with a license to serve food or beverages or that employs at least one person. That means any public place -- shopping malls, concert halls, arenas, museums, health facilities including nursing homes, education facilities and child care centers. ... Granholm to sign bill that will clear the air in public Come May 1, the question "Smoking or nonsmoking?" will be history. That's the day a long-sought statewide smoking ban takes effect in Michigan workplaces, including bars and restaurants. The Michigan Senate and House passed a compromise bill Thursday that broke the stalemate over exempting Detroit's three casinos, by allowing smoking on gaming floors, but not in casino bars, restaurants or hotels. Gov. Jennifer Granholm said late Thursday that she would sign the bill, which will not affect Michigan's 20 American Indian casinos. The vote was a victory for anti-smoking advocates who sought the ban for more than a decade. Michigan will be the 38th state to ban smoking in public places. ... Smoking ban slammed, praised The Michigan Legislature passed a long-delayed smoking ban Thursday that would put Josh Judd and other smokers out in the cold. The 30-year-old Kalamazoo man, sitting in the Green Top Tavern holding a cigarette in one hand and a beer in the other, said he doesn't think much of the bill prohibiting smoking in public places, including restaurants and bars. "I think it's bull----," he said. "I don't think they have any right to tell a bar you can't have smoking. ...The bar should decide." ... Local reaction to ban mixed "They should just ban it altogether, then I'll quit," Haselton, 39, said Thursday as he puffed a cigarette in Dillinger's Pub in downtown Traverse City, shortly after state legislators voted to snuff smoking in most public places in Michigan. The ban would take effect in May 2010. It applies to all bars, restaurants and workplaces except for the Detroit casinos, cigar bars, tobacco specialty stores, home offices and motor vehicles. Haselton quit before, but started up again. His brother, Andrew Haselton, 40, kicked the habit for good. ... Michigan smoking ban for restaurants and bars --- but not casinos --- hailed by some Janet Olszewski, director of the Michigan Department of Community Health, commended the move, which is expected to be signed into law by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. "The Legislature passed a strong bill that outright bans smoking in public places. That decision shows that the health of Michigan citizens is a top priority," Olszewski said in a statement. Second-hand smoke is the third-leading cause of preventable death in Michigan, resulting in about 2,500 deaths a year, she noted. Bar and restaurant lobbyists have said the measure would cost thousands of jobs as smokers choose to frequent the establishments less often. They said the decision to go smoke free should be left to business owners - 6,000 bars and restaurants have already instituted bans. ... VIDEO: Local reaction to legislators making Michigan smoke free Pump House owner Tom Jennings has gotten used to the ups and downs of the proposal. "It's been on the back burner, then someone decided to bring it up again," said Jennings. The state will soon prohibit smoking inside all restaurants and bars. For doctors -- like Rick Johansen with the Berrien County Health Department -- the decision has been a long time coming. ... Michigan votes indoor smoke ban Detroit's 3 casinos given exemption WHAT WILL HAPPEN : The ban would take effect in May. It applies to bars, restaurants and workplaces, except for three Detroit casinos, cigar bars, tobacco specialty stores, home offices, and motor vehicles. Although smoking will be allowed on casino gambling floors, it will be banned in the casinos’ bars, restaurants, and hotels. With the governor’s signature, Michigan would become the 38th state to limit smoking in public places such as government buildings and bars and restaurants, Sen. Ray Bash said. EDITORIAL: Smoking ban should apply to all places Do Michigan lawmakers really want to take a position that it is OK to kill casino workers as long as there are some jobs saved in the process? In fact, some observers believe that Republicans in the state Senate were calling the bluff of Detroit-area Democrats by pushing for a complete ban. It's not that the Republicans supported the ban. Rather, they expected Democrats to balk at a ban that included casinos. Now, however, there is a compromise that will grandfather smoking on casino floors. That is still ridiculous. Either the threat of second-hand smoke is sufficient to ban it from public places, or it isn't. To allow some businesses, such as casinos, to maintain an advantage over the bar down the street is unfair. If state lawmakers believe that a ban on smoking in restaurants and bars is warranted, then ban it in all places. Otherwise, leave it alone and let the public decide where it wants to eat, drink and gamble. ... Senate could vote on smoking ban Thursday AP) -- The Senate might finally take up a statewide smoking ban that has stalled for years in the Legislature. Senators have been working on a bill that would ban smoking in all workplaces, restaurants and bars, but could exempt casino floors and cigar bars. The House passed a ban containing similar exemptions in May. The Senate measure could come up for a vote on Thursday. It faces opposition from the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association and from health advocates and some lawmakers who object to exempting the three Detroit casinos. If the bill stalls, there likely will be an effort to put a smoking ban on the ballot next year. ... Michigan Workplace Smoking Ban Set To Pass LANSING – Michigan has moved one step closer to having a statewide, workplace smoking ban with the news that a leading Republican lawmaker has the votes to approve such a bill, the Detroit News reports. The bill would exempt Detroit casinos, cigar bars and tobacco stores from the smoking ban. State Senate Appropriations chairman Ron Jelinek said the Senate would discuss the smoking bill this week with his proposed amendment that would let people smoke in the city’s casinos, cigar bars and smoke shops. The amendment prohibits smoking in casino hotels and restaurants, but permits it on the casino floor. “Yes, I think we can get the votes,” said Jelinek, who also pointed out that the legislation should pass the House, too. House Speaker Andy Dillon said that the smoking ban legislation is one of his top three legislative items to complete before the holiday recess begins Dec. 17. However, the bill has its detractors. The Michigan Licensed Beverage Association is against a smoking ban, but if one passes, it would prefer one with no exceptions. Currently, 6,000 Michigan bars and restaurants do not allow smoking, so the group wonders why a ban is needed. ... EDITORIAL: End Michigan's shame and pass the smoking ban So let's review the arguments as lawmakers contemplate one more attempt to limit smoking in Michigan. The primary point, often lost in the haze, is that this is first and foremost a workplace ban on smoking. Few workers these days have to put up with colleagues' smoking . . . In a perfect world, lawmakers would not exempt casino floors -- their workers deserve clean lungs, too -- but after years of stalemate any significant smoke-free progress would be welcome. Which leaves the hope that this time, finally, lawmakers won't keep blowing smoke. ... Lighten Up The Michigan Legislature is once again considering an attack on private property rights in the form of a workplace smoking ban, according to the Associated Press. Russ Harding, director of the Center's Property Rights Network, addressed the issue a year ago when the Michigan House and Senate passed separate bills but failed to reach an agreement on how intrusive to make the proposed legislation: Smoking bans may not strike most people as an obvious government property taking in the same manner as seizing someone's home to make way for a new highway, but both are an erosion of the right to use one's own private property free from government meddling. ... Detroit barkeeps head to Lansing to bounce smoking ban Detroit bar owners whose establishments are close to the Detroit casinos trekked to the state Capitol today to oppose legislation that would ban smoking in public places but make exceptions for casinos. Tino Hammond, owner of Reggie's Moulin Rouge in Detroit, said her business and her 40 employees will be in jeopardy if lawmakers approve the measure. "This would just be the nail in the coffin," she said at a news conference in Lansing. "Anybody in the downtown area would suffer tremendously. It would put us in jeopardy of closing in six to eight months." Christina Byrd, whose family owns Floods Bar & Grill in Detroit, said 30 percent to 35 percent of the lounge's patrons smoke. ... Most states have some smoking ban, but not Mich. Michigan would join a majority of states with smoking bans if a bill succeeds. A look at the different types of bans across the country: --Smoking in state and-or local government buildings is banned in 33 states and the District of Columbia. --Smoking in private workplaces, not including restaurants or bars, is banned in 24 states and the District of Columbia. ... MI lawmakers edge closer to possible smoking ban; Detroit casinos could get partial exemption A statewide smoking ban that has stalled for years in the Legislature could be in place by Christmas. "Most legislators want to get it done," Jelinek said. "The major discrepancy now is either total ban or ban with exceptions. ... We'll see what flies." Opponents want the decision left up to individual business owners. Lance Binoniemi of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association says if a ban is passed, it shouldn't have exceptions that "pick winners and losers" by exempting casinos. ... Statewide smoking ban: To exempt or not to exempt? While casino owners assume they'll lose business if they can no longer allow their customers to light up while they gamble -- and force their non-smoking patrons to inhale second-hand smoke while they gamble -- Christoff's story doesn't shed any light on whether that assumption is born out of any research. Meanwhile, hanging over potential legislative action is the possibility that ban advocates who favor no exemptions will pursue a ballot initiative to ban smoking outright, bypassing Lansing lawmakers. In case you haven't been following Lansing's smoking-ban saga, here's some informative recent history from the same story: … Michigan House Speaker has end-of-session goals ... and finally passing a workplace smoking ban are the top items on House Speaker Andy Dillon's to-do list before the end of the year. . . . Finally, the speaker said he's hopeful the Legislature can pass a public smoking prohibition this month, breaking a long-standing impasse. The Senate has insisted on an across-the-board ban while the House has made exceptions for the three Detroit casinos. One proposal in the Senate is a compromise bill that would bar smoking on half the casino floor and in casino hotels and restaurants. Dillon said that plan has some promise. Marsden said if the smoking ban comes up next week in the Senate, as some predict, "I expect the majority leader will stay consistent on it -- a full ban." ... The city's three casinos could see nearly a third of their revenues -- and tax payments to Detroit and the state -- vanish should legislators enact a smoking ban without an exemption for the gambling halls. That's according to estimates from MGM Grand Detroit, the city's largest casino by revenue. Downtown casino executives say a ban on smoking with no exemption for the three properties -- MGM Grand, MotorCity and Greektown -- could deal a damaging blow to revenues, especially as Ohio readies itself for the opening of four casinos within its borders. Jamaine Dickens, a spokesman for MGM Grand Detroit, said the projected impact wouldn't just hit the casinos, but the city and state, which take in millions in taxes each year. All told, the city and state could lose up to $93.1 million a year in taxes ... Senate has not yet taken action on smoking ban bill The smoke still has not cleared between the Michigan House and Senate on whether state residents should be allowed to enjoy cigarettes while dining. It has been six months since the Michigan House passed a statewide smoking ban for public places, such as restaurants and bars, and the Senate still has not picked up the bill, which exempts casinos and cigar bars. Some representatives still are pushing for the Senate to take action on the bill, but experts said disagreement between the two houses could mean the Senate might not pick it up at all. “Having just finished up the budget process, we are looking at our agenda for the upcoming year and we haven’t had any discussion of how we will address the smoking ban,” said Matt Marsden, spokesman for Sen. Majority Leader Mike Bishop, R-Rochester. The Senate passed a smoking ban with no exemptions in 2008, but the House never picked up that bill, he said. “If there is going to be a smoking ban, we don’t believe there should be carve-outs for certain establishments,” Marsden said. But exempting casinos and cigar bars would create a “middle ground..." UM initiative bans smoking Students at both the University of Michigan and Purdue University would have to either quit or find somewhere else to puff up if a smoking ban under serious consideration at both Midwestern schools is implemented. The Michigan initiative bans smoking anywhere on its three campuses and, in lieu of receiving a ticket, offenders will be forced to attend workshops encouraging them to drop the habit. “We are working to promote a culture of health, and this fits into that philosophy … We believe a smoke-free environment is another strong way to encourage a healthy lifestyle,” said Kallie Michels, associate vice president of communication at Michigan. “We hope that the policy will translate into more members of our community quitting smoking or never starting.” The goal of the initiative is to make the campus completely smoke-free by July 2011 in order to create a “culture of health.” ... Muskegon County smoking ban takes effect Nov. 9 A smoking ban covering businesses across Muskegon County is less than two weeks from going into effect, and county officials say they're working with business owners to help bring them into compliance before the deadline. Ken Kraus, director of Public Health-Muskegon County, said the smoking ban covers all indoor businesses, except bars and restaurants, and it goes into effect Nov. 9. Kraus said he has been fielding periodic calls from business owners wanting to comply. When county commissioners discussed the ban this summer, few people spoke in opposition. But dozens of residents and government officials encouraged the board to approve the regulations. ... Rep. Lori works on smoking ban State Rep. Matt Lori is working with a bipartisan group of House lawmakers to figure out a new strategy for getting a smoking ban signed into law. Earlier this year, the House approved legislation to ban smoking in most public places, including bars and restaurants, but that plan has since stalled in the Senate because it exempts casino gambling floors, cigar bars and tobacco shops from the proposed ban. Senate leaders have repeatedly said they will only support a total ban, so as not to create an unfair competitive advantage for some businesses over others. Last year, the Senate approved a total smoking ban, but that plan fell six votes short in the House. “It seems pretty clear the Senate is only willing to support a total ban, no exemptions, and I think we have enough support for a total ban in the House, so that’s the direction I think we are going to go,” said Lori, of Constantine. ... Ogemaw County votes not to adopt smoking ban WEST BRANCH — Ogemaw County commissioners voted 6-1 not to adopt the Clean Indoor Air Regulation, which would have banned smoking in workplaces and work vehicles, during their regular meeting on Oct. 22. Commissioner Beverly Scott cast the dissenting vote. The decision will also affect the counties of Oscoda, Alcona and Iosco. All three counties had already approved the ordinance. However, because of the way the ordinance was written, it had to be approved by all four counties to become effective. Now that Ogemaw County has chosen not to approve the ordinance, which was brought forth by District Health Department No. 2, it cannot be enforced in any of the other three counties. “I think the law would make people criminals,” said Commissioner Pete Hennard. “The area we need to enforce (a ban on smoking) is in restaurants,” said Commissioner John West. “That’s where we need to enforce it and we can’t.” ... Charlevoix Housing Commission becomes 32nd in Michigan to adopt smoke-free policy and 129th in the nation After temporary smoking ban during ArtPrize, The BOB makes change permanent GRAND RAPIDS -- The B.O.B. has gone smoke-free. The permanent smoking ban comes on the heels of a temporary ban enacted during ArtPrize to protect the 158 entries on site. Two of the B.O.B.s venues -- Eve Lounge and Crush Nightclub -- were smoke-free before ArtPrize, which was Sept. 23 through Oct. 10. The temporary ban was such a hit The B.O.B. decided to make it permanent, said general manager Shane Philipsen. The new ban applies to all venues, except for the outdoor patio and the 10:30 p.m. show at Dr. Grins Comedy Club. The B.O.B., 20 Monroe Ave. NW, is a 70,000-square-foot, four-story building owned by The Gilmore Collection that also includes Bobarinos, B.O.B.'s Brewery, Dr. Grins Comedy Club, Gillys, J Bar, Judsons Steakhouse, Monkey Bar Resto Lounge and the Gilmore Collection Catering. ... Commissioners OK partial smoking ban TRAVERSE CITY -- Traverse City commissioners banned smoking at beaches, picnic shelters and playground areas, but stopped short of a total smoking ban in city parks. Commissioners decided in a 6-1 vote in favor of a smoking ban "in park buildings, shelters and designated swimming and beach areas in city parks that have waterfront or playground areas." The ban takes effect Oct. 29 and violators could be asked to stop smoking, expelled from the park or ticketed. Commissioner Ralph Soffredine said it was a move in the right direction, but wanted a more restrictive measure to ban all tobacco in city parks. ... Monroe Housing Commission becomes 31st in Michigan to adopt smoke-free policy and 125th in the nation Smoking ban regulation hearing to be held Oct. 22 OGEMAW COUNTY — The countywide public hearing for the Clean Indoor Air regulation, which is being proposed by District Health Department no. 2, will be held on Oct. 22 at 6 p.m. DHD no. 2 Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Cori Upper said the hearing is for Ogemaw County citizens to express their concerns or support to the commissioners on the regulation. “There won’t be any schedule or anything like that,” he said. “It’s just going to be an open public meeting.” There will be DHD no. 2 staff on-hand to discuss any of the provisions included in the proposal and answer any questions at the will of the board of commissioners, Upper said. ... Traverse City Commissioners to decide park smoking ban The City Commission continues to look at a proposed ordinance that would ban smoking in city parks. We're told the main reasons for the ban are to prevent unwanted second hand smoke and keep city property free of cigarette butts. The city says a ban on all the city parks would be easier to enforce than a ban on selected areas near playground equipment and pavilions. ... City leaders discuss smoking ban in parks TRAVERSE CITY -- Zachary Collins and Ally Smith sat near a flower bed at Traverse City's Open Space, each smoking a cigarette. They didn't throw their cigarette butts on the ground or into Grand Traverse Bay, yet they still did something city leaders may consider banning: they smoked in a city park. "It's our choice to do it, so why do we always get the short end of the stick?" said Collins, a downstate musician looking for work in Traverse City. Smith said she doesn't want to light up near a family or playground, but if city commissioners banned smoking in parks, people would simply stand on sidewalks. Maybe designated smoking areas would be better, Collins said. City commissioners discussed all that and more at their Monday meeting. City leaders already banned smoking in workplaces, save for restaurants and bars, places they've lobbied state lawmakers to consider a ban on smoking. ... Monroe Housing Commission becomes 31st in Michigan to adopt smoke-free policy and 125th in the nation Leelanau, Benzie workplaces to go smoke-free SUTTONS BAY -- Leaders in Leelanau and Benzie counties made their communities' indoor workplaces smoke-free. The law is a welcome change that will prevent public exposure to dangerous second-hand smoke, some believe, while others suggest the new law infringes on free enterprise and individual choice. The new regulation does not impact bars, restaurants, tobacco shops and tribal casinos and will become effective Nov. 16. "I think it's a great idea," said Ed Beuerle, owner of Northern Lumber Company in Suttons Bay. ... Public hearing date set for countywide smoking ban proposal WEST BRANCH — The public will have a chance to share its opinion on the proposed countywide smoking ban, during a public hearing scheduled for Sept. 24. The hearing is set to begin at 6:15 p.m. in the Ogemaw County Building’s commissioners’ chambers. It will be held prior to the county’s regular monthly meeting. Area residents will be given the opportunity to comment on the proposed Clean Indoor Air Regulation, which would ban smoking in public workspaces and enclosed public places. The regulation is being brought to the county by District Health Department No. 2, which serves the four-county area of Ogemaw, Oscoda, Alcona and Iosco counties. Ogemaw County is the last of the four to see the regulation. The other three counties have already approved it. Oscoda County was the most recent, approving it on June 23 of this year. Iosco was the first to approve it in 2007. ... Locals not fired up by ban on smoking While one state legislator wants to give local communities the power to ban smoking in bars and restaurants, Livingston County officials don't seems interested in it. "It's too much government," Brighton Mayor Kate Lawrence said. "It's not the government's job," she said. Hartland Township Supervisor Bill Fountain shared a similar view of the proposal. "I feel it should be up to each establishment if they want smoking or not," Fountain said. He's the owner of the Majestic at Lake Walden golf course, which is a smoke-free facility. ... Bill lets towns decide on restaurant smoking Local governments in Michigan should be able to prohibit smoking in restaurants and bars since a proposed statewide ban remains stalled in the Legislature, a lawmaker says. A bill sponsored by Rep. Gary McDowell, D-Rudyard, would let each county, city, township and village decide if people can smoke in local bars and restaurants. Courts have said Michigan law allows only the Legislature to ban smoking in food establishments. McDowell said that should be changed because he does not think lawmakers will pass a ban on their own. "It'll bring the debate back home, to every township and city hall," McDowell said in an interview. "Once one community does it, it'll start to spread across the state. It's hard to imagine which community in Michigan would want the notoriety of being the last to allow smoking in the workplace." ... Bill lets Michigan towns decide on restaurant smoking A Michigan lawmaker says local governments should be able to ban smoking in restaurants and bars since a proposed statewide ban is stalled in the Legislature. A bill sponsored by Rep. Gary McDowell would let each county, city, township and village decide if people can smoke in local bars and restaurants. Michigan law allows only the Legislature to ban smoking in food establishments. McDowell says the law should be changed because legislators will not pass a statewide ban. The Rudyard Democrat had planned to testify Wednesday in a House committee, but his bill has been taken off the agenda. ... Midland-based MidMichigan Health widens smoking ban MidMichigan Health will increase its ban on smoking on Sept. 1 at its Midland hospital and other health facilities. Under the new policy, the health system will prohibit smoking and tobacco use in cars parked at its building locations. "The primary goal of this policy is to reinforce MidMichigan Health's mission and commitment to create a safe and healthy environment for our patients and one another by eliminating second- and third-hand smoke," said Richard M. Reynolds, president of MidMichigan Health. The nonprofit health provider's policy defines tobacco products as cigarettes, cigars, pipes, other lighted smoking devices and chewing tobacco. Use of these products is not permitted on any MidMichigan Health campus, including in vehicles, effective Sept. 1. ... Detroit 101: where to find non-smoking restaurants Despite the ongoing push for legislation throughout Michigan to ban smoking in restaurants as well as most workplaces, the dust hasn't settled yet (nor have the ashes). It can only be hoped, for those with asthma, tobacco allergy, and any other respiratory problems, that this issue will soon be resolved once and for all. Despite the smokers' insistence that they have a right to pursue their habit, there is nothing in either the state's or nation's constitutions guaranteeing anyone the right to befoul the air and donate carcinogens and a myriad of other noxious substances to the lungs of everyone around them. . . . Rejoice, healthy-breathing afficionados! There are restaurants in the Detroit area that have gone smoke-free. A list of such eateries follows (note: it's best to call ahead, in case of either a need for reservations, or to check on the status of their smokelessness, as restaurants are often subject to sudden changes): ... County board approves anti-smoking measures (MI) The Muskegon County Board of Commissioners has made an emphatic statement against smoking inside county workplaces and public buildings. The board Tuesday unanimously approved the "Muskegon County Clean Indoor Air Regulation," a comprehensive smoking ban that covers most inside workplaces -- except restaurants, bars and specialty tobacco shops. In other businesses, the ban will cover "all enclosed public and private worksites and public places within Muskegon County," according to the ordinance. The board also approved a letter of support urging the state Legislature to enact a statewide smoking ban that would include restaurants and bars. Those businesses are currently exempt from smoking bans approved by county boards. ... County commission to act on smoking ban More workers in Muskegon County may soon be breathing easier at their places of employment. This Tuesday, the Muskegon County Board of Commissioners will vote on a Indoor Clean Air Regulation that, if passed, will ban smoking tobacco in most private worksites. That will protect workers from secondhand smoke exposure. A recommendation to approve the regulation which has already been adopted by 27 counties and three cities in Michigan, was made the commission’s Human Resources Committee. Passage of the regulation is expected since the Human Resources Committee is a committee of the whole of the commission, and commissioners unanimously approved it 10-0 with Commissioner Charles Nash (District 7) excused. ... Smoke ruling highlights need for ban The Michigan Supreme Court recently gave legal sanction, indirectly, to an Ingham County regulation that requires eateries to put the "non" in "non-smoking" seating areas. The court's decision last month in a case out of Charlevoix County was a welcome endorsement of local authority to protect the public health. And the smoking regulations backed by the court are essentially "copied" from Ingham County's plan adopted late last year, says Commissioner Andy Schor.As good as these regulations are, they are not as beneficial as a statewide ban on smoking in restaurants and bars would be. Neither the four-county Northwest Michigan Health Agency nor Ingham County banned smoking from eateries with their regs. They couldn't because the state reserves that power for itself. What Ingham did do, though, was utilize its power under public health law to require retailers to do more to separate the smoking zones from the no-smoking ones than place some signs or scoot some tables a few inches. Ventilation systems to keep the smoke from the non-smokers are now required. ... Muskegon County Board to weigh smoking ban for businesses, public places MUSKEGON COUNTY -- One by one, residents, business owners and health officials urged the Muskegon County board to approve a smoking ban they say would protect employees and visitors to workplaces and other public buildings across the county. More than 20 people testified during a county commission public hearing Tuesday -- all of whom supported the "Muskegon County Clean Indoor Air Regulation." After the hearing, the board, meeting as the human resources committee, tentatively approved two clean indoor air measures. ... Mid-Michigan counties consider smoking ban The possibility of a statewide smoking ban has been a hot topic of debate in Lansing for quite some time, but after a recent ruling, some individual counties are now holding their own discussions regarding the matter. In a unanimous decision, the Michigan Supreme Court has ruled that counties can now make stricter smoking laws than the state government. This will allow counties to continue deciding on smoking bans in local business establishments, with the exception of restaurants and bars, which are still left up to state lawmakers to decide. County commissioners in the mid-Michigan area, including Isabella County, appear to be split down the middle on the issue. "It's been a topic of discussion," said District 6 Commission Chairman David Ling. "Some are animatedly supporting it and some are animatedly against it." ... MELVINDALE: Ordinance to ban smoking in public parks snuffed out An ordinance to ban smoking in city parks failed in its second and final reading at last Wednesday's City Council meeting. The ordinance would have made it unlawful for a person to smoke on or within 30 of feet of bleachers or baseball backstops at any city park. Voting against the ordinance were Councilmen Jeffery Bolton and John Rowe and Councilwoman Kalley Hess. Voting yes were Councilwomen Sue Herman and Stacy Striz, who proposed the ordinance. Councilman Joe Alvarado was absent. ... Supreme Court Upholds Regional Smoking Ban LANSING, MI (MPRN) - The state Supreme Court has upheld a regional ban on smoking in offices, shops, and factories. The ban covers Emmet, Antrim, and Otsego counties in northwest Michigan. The court rejected a claim the ordinance violates employers' rights to run their businesses. Two dozen Michigan cities and counties also have limits on workplace smoking. Emily Palsrok is with the Michigan Campaign for Smoke-Free Air. She says the decision is encouraging. But Palsrok says local governments cannot ban smoking in bars and restaurants. She says that's why a state law is needed. ... Tired of waiting for legislature to act, Ann Arbor restaurants ban ... Throwing darts at Arbor Brewing Company on Tuesday night, Andre and Natalie Barroso were looking forward to August, when the pub and eatery goes smoke-free. "It's great," said Natalie, a sometimes smoker. "I only smoke a pack a month and I don't want to do that." Several establishments in downtown Ann Arbor have decided they can't wait for a state-wide smoking ban, and recently made the leap to go smoke-free, or are about to do it. The Full Moon banned smoking inside its Main Street location in April. The Earle on Washington Street, which permitted smoking only at its wine bar, restricted it to late-night hours in mid-June, and has since banned smoking altogether. And now Arbor Brewing Company has announced smoking will be banned inside its Washington Street pub starting Aug. 3. As at The Full Moon, smoking will still be allowed outside on sidewalk tables. When those tables are closed in the winter, the pub is figuring out a way to still accommodate smokers outside. "Sure, I know I've lost customers, but I also hope that I'm picking up other customers," said Dennis Webster, owner of The Earle. "I certainly had hoped the state legislature would act and make it uniform across the state but they seem to be pretty unable to do that." ... Michigan high court: Counties can pass smoking rules CADILLAC - Although many states in the union have passed bans on smoking in restaurants and bars, Michigan isn’t one of them. And it seems that the status quo will remain for now as the Michigan Supreme Court has said that counties can put more stringent anti-smoking rules into place than state lawmakers. Courts have said that only state legislatures can ban smoking in restaurants and bars. But local governments are prohibiting smoking inside businesses because of secondhand smoke risks. And now, they can continue to do so. All seven justices on the Michigan high court said Tuesday that local officials can adopt stricter smoking regulations than the state to safeguard public health. ... Smoke-filled Air in Detroit Casinos Deemed Unhealthy Lansing, Mich. - Despite the claim that their air ventilation systems address the dangers of secondhand smoke, air quality testing (AQT) conducted in Detroit's three casinos revealed indoor pollution levels that are eight times higher than outdoor air. The testing at each of Detroit's three casinos was sponsored by the Campaign for Smokefree Air and took place on Saturday, April 18, 2009. The tests measured the amount of tobacco smoke derived fine particle air pollution in each casino. Each location was measured over a 40-minute period using the TSI SidePak AM510 Personal Aerosol Monitor. "Results from the air quality assessments in each casino reinforce that casinos need to be included in smokefree legislation," said Katherine Knoll, spokesperson for CSA and senior director of advocacy for the American Heart Association. "Casino workers deserve the same protection as any other employee. These workers are unfortunately exposed to high levels of air pollution on a daily basis in order to earn a paycheck." [The MGM Grand issued a press release in rebuttal.] Health Department to propose smoking ban in Ogemaw County OGEMAW COUNTY — County commissioners will soon be asked to approve a countywide smoking ban in public places that has been proposed by District Health Department No. 2. The Clean Indoor Air Regulation would ban smoking in public workspaces and enclosed public places, according to Cori Upper, DHD No. 2’s emergency preparedness coordinator. This would include employee vehicles. Oscoda County’s commissioners passed the smoking ban on June 23 with a 4-1 vote, becoming the third county in the district to approve the ban. Iosco County was the first to approve it in 2007, and Alcona County followed earlier this year. Upper said in order for the ban to be enforced by the health department, all four counties must approve it. “What we’ve done is create a resolution so that the county can adopt the resolution but choose to apply the regulation or not,” Upper said. In other words, Ogemaw County can pass the regulation, but choose not to enforce it within the county. Iosco, Alcona and Oscoda counties have all chosen to apply the regulation. Upper said enforcement of the regulation will be complaint-driven. ... Sen. George urges vote on smoking ban KALAMAZOO -- To Republican state Sen. Tom George's chagrin, the Republican-controlled Senate has yet to move on the workplace-smoking-ban bill that the Democrat-controlled Michigan House passed in late May. George, a candidate for governor who is eager to vote in favor of a ban, said it is the most common issue that people raise when they speak with him. ``I've been trying to let my leadership know that this is something that my constituency largely wants. I'm eager to vote on it, and I hope we deal with it soon,'' said George, whose 20th District covers Kalamazoo County as well as Paw Paw and Antwerp townships in Van Buren County. ... TC officials push smoking restrictions
State Rep. Gary McDowell, D-Rudyard, agreed to sponsor a bill in the Michigan Legislature to allow local control of smoking in bars and restaurants. It would give local officials the authority to ban smoking in such places and could spur legislators in Lansing to enact a statewide ban, McDowell said. "This would allow local units of government to go ahead and make this decision themselves, rather than waiting on Lansing. It's a long process and I'm not sure we can get it done on a state level," he said. Traverse City officials sought McDowell's help because the local state representative, Wayne Schmidt, R-Traverse City, opposes the idea and said smoking rules should be set by business and property owners. ... Smoke-free regulation approved by Benzie-Leelanau Board of Health; Now goes to county commissioners Michigan House passes indoor smoking ban that exempts cigar bars, tobacco shops and Detroit casinos, but passage in Senate is uncertain A House-authored indoor smoking ban like the one approved last year now heads to the Senate, still absent an agreement between the two chambers that doomed the effort in 2008. The proposed ban that would apply to nearly all indoor workplaces in Michigan, including bars and restaurants, easily passed Tuesday, 73-31, after attempts to weaken or strengthen it were defeated. Cigar bars, tobacco specialty shops and the gaming floors of Detroit's three commercial casinos would be the lone exceptions in a bill that would make Michigan the 37th state to enact broad prohibitions on workplace smoking. "It was the best we could get, which is a lot better than what we have now," said Rep. Richard Ball, R-Laingsburg. Last year, however, the Senate stripped out those exemptions. The bill died months later when House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford, declined to schedule a post-election vote that smoking opponents were confident they would have won. ... Consensus hard to find on proposed state smoking ban Students might be forced to put their cigarettes out if a proposal approved last week by a state House committee becomes law. The ban would prohibit smoking in workplaces such as restaurants and bars, with the exception of smoke shops and gaming floors in commercial casinos. The proposed ban is facing criticism from state officials and business associations, which claim a ban could hurt businesses fighting to survive in a tough economy. “Studies we have seen in other states (show that) the small bars and restaurants are going to be severely affected for the first two to three years … in Michigan, that will cost jobs for smaller businesses,” said Lance Binoniemi, executive director of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association. Business only might be temporarily hurt, said Eric Skusa, general manager at The Peanut Barrel Restaurant ... Partial smoking ban clears 1st hurdle LANSING -- A proposed ban on smoking in restaurants, bars and other work sites got a new breath of life in the Legislature on Wednesday, encouraged by the state's leading physicians group. "Get this done, however you have to do it," implored Dr. Michael Sandler, past president of the Michigan State Medical Society, in a meeting with top legislative leaders. Minutes earlier, a House committee voted 9-1 for a smoking ban that would exempt Detroit's casinos, and cigar bars and smoke shops statewide. ... Editorial: Michigan lawmakers should do their duty and decide on smoking ban State Sen. Tupac Hunter, D-Detroit, has proposed a well-worn solution to the legislative logjam on a workplace smoking ban in Michigan: Let voters decide the issue for themselves. But the reason we send representatives to Lansing is to make these sorts of decisions, not to kick the can back to the people. Republicans say nothing less than a full ban would be fair, while Democrats seek exceptions for bingo halls, smoke shops and the Detroit casinos. If Hunter's legislative referendum is passed by both the House and Senate and signed by Gov. Jennifer Granholm, a full ban on workplace smoking will be presented to voters on the November 2010 statewide ballot. If passed, it will become part of the Michigan Constitution. But our lawmakers could make this decision among themselves without fiddling with our constitution. Michiganians elect politicians to make the choices that we're too busy working, raising families and paying taxes to make. If our legislators can't fill that basic role, perhaps it is their futures, and not the future of workplace smoking, that should be on the line on the 2010 ballot. ... Lawmaker wants voters to decide on smoking LANSING -- The Legislature should give Michigan voters the final word on whether to prohibit smoking in workplaces, including bars and restaurants, a lawmaker said Wednesday. A bill sponsored by Sen. Tupac Hunter, D-Detroit, would put a proposed workplace smoking ban on the November 2010 statewide ballot. ... U-M to ban smoking on all campuses Smokers at the University of Michigan already have to go outside, but beginning in 2011, they'll have to go off campus to light up, officials announced Monday. "There's no question that direct smoke and secondhand smoke ... creates an unhealthy environment," said Robert Winfield, U-M's chief health officer and co-chairman of the Smoke-Free University Steering Committee. "This is a difficult task ... but it appears necessary in order to create the best possible environment for our students and employees and to help contain health care costs." The plan, part of the Smoke-Free University Initiative, is expected to take effect July 1, 2011, and include all grounds and buildings on all three U-M campuses. U-M would become the largest university in Michigan to go smoke-free. Some 260 nationwide already have Most business owners quiet on proposed smoking ban "If we need a compromise and remove casinos from the ban right now, and then re-examine that part later, then do it. But let's get 90 percent of this done," Jacobs continued. Jacobs was referring to the legislature's delay last week of a proposed statewide smoking ban. "One of the major hits to the economy is health care costs, with a ban we can do something to directly impact this," she said. Area bar and restaurant owners are keeping a close eye on Lansing to see whether a move to ban smoking in public places will finally reach a vote. ... House shelves workplace smoking ban Lansing -- Advocates of a workplace smoking ban in Michigan will have to wait at least a few more months for the issue to return in the Legislature. House Speaker Andy Dillon, D-Redford Township, said he has decided the House should zero in this spring on balancing the cash-strapped budget and creating jobs in the wounded economy. "The smoking ban is an important issue, but jobs and the budget are more important right now," Dillon said. "I see us getting back to the smoking issue by summer." Senate Republicans agree. "Until we get our unemployment rate down, issues like the smoking ban are not a good use of the Legislature's time," said Matt Marsden, spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, R-Rochester. ... Committee vote postponed for state smoking ban No Smoking on Friday in Genesee County restaurants? Majority supports smoking ban Michigan May Clear The Air Of Cigarette Smoke At Casinos Lawmakers in the state of Michigan have heard the rumblings. They go something like this, "if a smoking ban is put in place we will lose all of our business," or, "smokers have the right to smoke in public and if people don't like it they can go somewhere else." Those are great arguments for continuing to pollute the air that other people breathe, but the facts still remain the same. In Michigan, up to 3,000 people a year are killed because of secondhand smoke. That is why lawmakers are now discussing a Bill that would eliminate smoking in all public areas, including casinos. The risk of losing revenue is no longer the issue for these lawmakers, saving lives is. State public smoking ban debate reopens in Lansing (MI) A renewed effort to ban smoking in Michigan restaurants, bars and all public places will get a hearing at noon before a House committee. There's no legislation pending, and the meeting is meant to reopen the debate, said Rep. Bert Johnson, D-Detroit, chairman of the House Regulatory Reform Committee. "We're going to do something and do it practically and reasonably," Johnson said. "I hope we can be on one page. I want to let the public know that this Legislature is serious about passing a workplace smoking ban." Lawmakers Reintroduce Smoke Free Legislation Lawmakers have reintroduced legislation that would make all Michigan businesses smoke free, but a Lansing bar and restaurant is already taking a step in that direction. Sammy's Lounge in south Lansing on Jolly Road is now smoke free. Workers there hope their plan to clear the air will bring in more customers. If you walk into Sammy's Lounge, you may notice something missing- smoke. Mark Corey, owner: "We thought, hey, let's try it and see how it goes." And that's exactly what owner Mark Corey did by making the restaurant side of Sammy's smoke free. Mark Corey: "We're a neighborhood bar and restaurant and we want the families to come in." So far his plan is working. Mich. counties, businesses clash on smoking bans Northern Michigan logger Roger Griffin got so upset about the anti-smoking restrictions Charlevoix County imposed on local businesses that he filed a lawsuit. . . . The hopes of Griffin and four other plaintiffs are riding on the Michigan Supreme Court, which is weighing a legal question that affects workplaces across the state: Can communities put more stringent smoking rules in place than lawmakers? Courts already have ruled that only the Legislature can ban smoking in restaurants and bars. But local governments have been prohibiting smoking inside other businesses, prodded by health advocates worried about the risks of secondhand smoke. The movement started in Marquette a dozen years ago but has gained momentum more recently, spreading to 21 counties and three cities that represent nearly half of Michigan's population. Mich. prisons snuff out tobacco products on Feb. 1 LANSING, Mich. (AP) — Corrections officer Rod Coston spends his afternoons and evenings guarding prison inmates as they walk between buildings at the Richard A. Handlon Correctional Facility in Ionia. Most days, he smokes a pack of cigarettes during his eight hours on the job. But starting next Sunday, Coston won't be able to turn to his favorite stress reliever while he's at work. The state's 41 prisons go tobacco-free that day. Until then, inmates and prison staff can continue smoking in outdoor prison areas, although they haven't been able to smoke inside since the 1990s. Michigan must now make workplaces smoke-free Basham is building a bipartisan anti-smoking caucus, and, if the Legislature fails to act, intends to take a ban to the voters with a 2010 ballot proposal. ... Study: Smoking Ban Would Help Reduce Heart Attack Admissions The number of heart attack patients admitted to Michigan hospitals could be significantly reduced if a statewide public smoking ban were implemented, according to a Henry Ford Hospital study. Researchers looked at the average number of hospital admissions from 1999-2006 in Michigan for what is known as acute myocardial infarction, or heart attack, and concluded that a smoking ban could lead to 3,340 fewer admissions annually. "If Michigan were to implement a comprehensive smoking ban tomorrow, we would see a 12 percent drop in heart attack admissions after the first year," says Mouaz Al-Mallah, M.D., Henry Ford's director of Cardiac Imaging Research and lead author of the study. While the study did not look at medical care costs, researchers theorize the reduction in admissions could mean substantial savings to health care providers. Report: Smoking ban would not hurt state's economy LANSING - A total ban on smoking would not economically harm Michigan restaurants and bars and would protect both customers and employees from diseases caused by second-hand smoke, a new report concludes. "The evidence is overwhelming, there is no net effect on the industry," said Ken Sikkema, who led the study by Public Sector Consultants of Lansing. He called the study the most complete review of smoking bans in other states and research of the effects of second-hand smoke. He said the report covers 43 studies that show smoking bans have not hurt business at bars and restaurants in other states. Twenty-four states ban smoking in bars and restaurants; four ban smoking in restaurants only. Smoking lounge makes airport the butt of jokes When Cherry Capital Airport officials announced that the beautiful new $45 million terminal wouldn't have a restaurant because of Federal Aviation Administration dithering, we were told there wasn't much anyone could do about it.
City recognized for anti-tobacco efforts: Smokefree Award |
The group Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights gave the city its 100-percent Smokefree Award of Excellence for its 1997 ordinance that prohibits smoking in workplaces and public places.Smokefree Dining/Travel |
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