Starting Jan. 1, smokers will be forced to take their butts outside to enjoy a cigarrette.

The WC explains the ban and who it will affect

By: Andrew Thomason

Posted: 11/30/07

Following in the footsteps of smokers in Cook County, Springfield and other areas around the state, all Illinoisans will have to step outside to light one up starting Jan. 1.

"In Illinois, we are doing what we can to protect the health of families and working people," said Gov. Rod Blagojevich. "I am proud to sign this legislation that makes it safe for people to visit or work in restaurants and bars without putting their health at risk."

Public Act 095-0017 - signed into law by Blagojevich on May 5, 2007 - states "smoking in public places, places of employment and governmental vehicles (is) prohibited." This does not include private residences and a few exceptions, such as retail tobacco stores and hotel and motel sleeping rooms.

In accordance with the new law, all public places will have "no smoking" signs, smokers will be forced to light up at least 15 feet from entrances and all ashtrays must be removed.

State-wide enforcements will be handled by the Illinois Department of Health, local public health departments and local law enforcement agencies. Individuals violating the law could be charged anywhere from $100 to $250. An owner or operator of a business found allowing smoking indoors could be charged $250 for the first violation, no less than $500 for the second offense within one year and no less than $2,500 for each additional incident within the same year.

To comply with the ban, Western Illinois University's president and vice presidents approved amendments to its Clean Air/No Smoking policy Nov. 13. Modifications include moving outdoor cigarette receptacles and posting the appropriate signs in and around buildings.

Complaints at Western can be first sent to the director of the building where the violation has occurred. If it continues, complaints will be forwarded to the Vice President for Administrative Services, Jacqueline Thompson. Complaints regarding students will be given to the Student Judicial Program and action will be taken.

University employees will be allowed to attend clinics offering quit-smoking programs during their normal working hours. They can also use sick or vacation time if they choose.

Just as Western wishes to improve employee well-being by encouraging clinics on quitting smoking, Illinois' ban originated from health concerns. According to the legislation, there were two studies in particular that brought about the ban.

The first was a 2006 report by the United States Surgeon General that states all levels of secondhand smoke, no matter how low, are a health risk.

The second study taken into consideration was conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency. It stated air cleaners only filter the smell of secondhand smoke and not the actual toxins.

- The office of the Governor of Illinois contributed to this report.