Published: October 06, 2007 06:07 pm      

Amory smoking ban passes

AMORY — A ban on smoking in all public places in the city of Amory takes effect Nov. 10.

The board of aldermen adopted the anti-smoking ordinance on Tuesday. Aldermen had been discussing and revising the ordinance for nearly two years.

The ordinance prohibits smoking in all indoor public areas and on all city-owned property.

Certain outdoor areas also will become smoke-free, such as public parks and sports complexes. People may not smoke within 25 feet of an entrance to a public building and 10 feet from the exit, according to the ordinance.

Signs prohibiting smoking must be posted at entrances of businesses by the business owners.

Violators face a fine of up to $50 for the first offense and up to $250 for subsequent offenses.

Business owners who violate the smoking ban may be fined up to $100 for the first offense and up to $500 for subsequent offenses. Their business license also may be revoked by the city for up to 12 months for noncompliance.

A growing number of cities across Mississippi have prohibited people from lighting up in most public places, including restaurants and shopping malls.

Some cities, like Madison, have persuaded business owners to voluntarily ban smoking.