March 12, 2010

Gov. Mark Parkinson has signed Kansas' first statewide smoking ban, hailing it as victory for people concerned about clean air.

Parkinson made the ban official Friday during a Statehouse ceremony. The ban takes effect on July 1.

Parkinson said the law was the work of a bipartisan coalition in the House and Senate, as well as numerous doctors, nurses and health professionals.

The law bans smoking in restaurants, bars, offices and other public places. It specifically exempts state-owned and operated casinos, which the governor said was hypocritical. He said it would be appropriate for the state to change that exemption in the future.

Health officials estimate that 4,000 Kansans die from smoking-related disease every year, about 300 through exposure to secondhand smoke.

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Legislation banning smoking in many public places in Kansas was awaiting the governor's signature.

The ban would take effect July 1. Gov. Mark Parkinson was scheduled to sign the measure Friday at the Statehouse.

Besides bars and restaurants, the legislation bans smoking in libraries, theaters, retail stores and most work places.

Supporters contend the restrictions will protect public health and reduce deaths from cancer and other diseases.

Critics argue the limits will hurt businesses. They also note the bill exempts the gambling floors of state-owned casinos as well as tobacco shops, private clubs and designated areas of nursing homes.