Chalk up another smoking ban in the state. This one in Beloit.
It's not as restrictive as Madison's smoking ban but as of next July no smoking signs will go up in most public places in Beloit.
Councilman James Van de Bogart says the science is clear. Second hand smoke is harmful. He argued for the measure that affects businesses where alcohol sales amount to less than 50 % of their revenue. That seems to exclude most bars and taverns. There's also a provision for business owners to appeal if they think the ban is damaging their business.
Councilman Terry Monahan said no decision by the council really meant the council favored smoking. Something no rational policy maker should be supporting.
The new ordinance goes into effect July first 2007