http://projects.newsobserver.com/under_the_dome/smoking_ban_heads_to_governor
The House narrowly agreed to the Senate version of a smoking ban, sending to the governor a bill that would ban smoking in bars and restaurants.
"This bill has come a long way," said Rep. Hugh Holliman, the House Democratic leader and champion of the bill. "It's had a much debate as any bill has ever had in this state."
Gov. Beverly Pedue is expected to sign the bill into law. It's a law that might have been unthinkable just a few years ago in a state built on the tobacco industry.
The bill was approved 62 to 56. The original House version allowed smoking only in businesses that prohibited anyone under 18 from entering the premises. That exception generally excluded all bars from the ban. Restaurants complained that the exception would give bars a competitive advantage.
But the version adopted by the Senate removed the section of the bill that applied the ban to all workplaces.
Holliman said the compromise was "probably as good as you're going to do on a bill that's as far reaching as this." He held open the possibility that he would take another run at all workplaces later.
Opponents said the bill was an infringement on personal rights.
"This is about the freedom and rights to do on your property what you see fit," said Rep. David Lewis, a Dunn Republican.
Update: In a statement, Gov. Beverly Perdue called it "an important and historic day for North Carolina."
"I have vigorously supported efforts to reduce and eliminate smoking and this bill will help more North Carolina citizens avoid the dangers of secondhand smoke," she said.