Public smoking ban on way?

Publication Date: 2008-12-15

• Author:EMILY BATTLE
• Publication:The Free Lance-Star, VA

Fredericksburg wants power to ban smoking in public spaces

Fredericksburg City Council members want state lawmakers to give them the power to ban smoking in public places such as bars and office buildings.

The council unanimously passed a resolution last Tuesday asking for such legislation.

In past General Assembly sessions, statewide smoking bans have had some support, but have ultimately failed to pass.

"This will get this conversation going on the state level," said Mayor Tom Tomzak, who brought the matter before the council.

The resolution cites the dangers of secondhand smoke and says the power to ban smoking in restaurants and other public spaces should rest with localities, not the state, which now has that power.