Governor Kaine pursues smoking ban, again

According to an article in today's Richmond Times Dispatch, Governor Tim Kaine is once again pursuing a smoking ban in Virginia restaurants.

Governor Timothy M. Kaine today proposed legislation for a statewide ban on smoking in restaurants, including dining establishments in public and private clubs.

Kaine's bid for such a ban passed the state Senate in 2006, but failed in the House of Delegates. In October 2006, Kaine signed an executive order banning smoking in all state buildings and vehicles.

The ban classifies a restaurant as any establishment including public and private clubs where food is served. Since Virginia requires food to be available in any establishment where alcohol is served, the ban would essentially apply to EVERY night club and bar in the commonwealth, on top of traditional restaurants.

Personally, I feel the government should stay out of matters such as this and leave it up to the business owner to decide, especially when it comes to night clubs and bars. We've got far more pressing issues than this, and Tim Kaine should work on solving those because so diligently pursuing a smoking ban. And for the record, no, I do not smoke. :)