Michigan's ban on smoking in most public places went into effect May 1. The bill was signed by Governor Granholm on December 18, 2009.
The Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law prohibits smoking in any workplace, restaurants, bars, shopping malls, bowling alleys, concert halls, arenas, museums, mechanic shops, health facilities, nursing homes, education facilities, and child care centers. It does not allow smoking in any outdoor area where food or beverages are served such as patios or rooftops.
All business operators are required to post "no smoking" signs at all entrances of their establishment. Ashtrays and other smoking paraphernalia are to be removed from the property.
All motels and hotels are now also smoke free.
The establishments that are exempt are cigar bars, tobacco specialty retail stores, and the gaming floors of casinos.
A cigar bar must prove that 10 percent or more of its total gross annual income is from their sales of cigars and rental of on-site humidors. Only cigar smoking is allowed and the cigars must cost over $1.00 per cigar.
Detnews.com reports Emily Palsrok, spokeswoman for the Campaign for Smokefree Air said, "We're going to have a healthier work force and a healthier public at large. The state is going to see long-term savings on the number of Medicaid dollars spent on people with illness from secondhand smoke."
Those who violate the law can be fined up to $100 for a first offense and up to $500 for additional offenses. If a restaurant consistently fails to comply with the law they could lose their food service license.
It is the responsibility of owners and employees to inform anyone who lights up that they are not allowed to smoke. If they do not comply they can be asked to leave and if necessary the police can be called.