The tougher law applies, so in most cases Howard?s smoking ban trumps the upcoming state law.
“Once the state law goes into effect, our law will be even stronger,” said Glenn Schneider, legislative chairman for Smoke Free Howard County, a Columbia-based volunteer group.
Howard?s ban, which goes into effect June 1 in bars and restaurants, does not allow for hardship waivers that businesses that may suffer economic hardship from the ban can apply for.
The state?s law, which takes effect Feb. 1, 2008, directs the state health department to develop criteria for waivers, which will be granted for three years.
Howard also includes a 15-foot smoke-free buffer zone outside the entrances of workplaces and public spaces, except in historic Ellicott City and certain bar and restaurant outdoor seating areas.
The county law also bans smoking in shared government vehicles, outdoor recreation areas such as Merriweather Post Pavilion and common living areas.
Signs are required in the entrances of all smoke-free areas in Howard, but the state only requires signs be posted in hotel rooms that permit smoking.
Howard?s law is more lenient for private clubs, lodges or theatrical performances, but the state law will ban smoking in those areas.
In August, part of the county law went into effect in public places, events and newly opened restaurants and bars.
Howard police haven?t issued any citations since August and have been taking “a more educational approach,” Officer Jennifer Reidy, a police spokeswoman, said.
Some residents have called the police to inquire about the law so they can relay information to a co-worker or friend, Reidy said. The health department takes over enforcement June 1.
