A measure repealing the state law requiring restaurants to maintain no-smoking sections cleared the Senate on a 23-17 vote but could face changes from Gov. Tim Kaine.
Restaurants could allow smoking if they posted a “smoking permitted” sign outside entrances. Supporters say market demand will causemost restaurants not to allow smoking, but opponents worry many establishments would erect the sign and permit customers to light up.
Several Senate members who initially opposed the bill and supported one to ban smoking in public places voted for the measure Thursday so Kaine could propose amendments. The governor’s amendments become law if lawmakers do not reject his changes when they reconvene in April. The smoking measure already has passed the House and now goes to the governor.
“It is a strong expectation that the governor will review this bill and will probably make changes,” said Sen. Mary Margaret Whipple, D-Arlington, who voted for the bill.
Previously Kaine said he opposes a total statewide smoking ban though he has indicated he might be amenable to some restrictions on smoking in bars and restaurants. Kaine also has prohibited lighting up in state office buildings.
Gubernatorial spokesman Kevin Hall said Kaine has not promised lawmakers that any amendments would be made.
“We have until March 26 to sign, veto or make revisions,” Hall said.
Sen. Brandon Bell, R-Roanoke, dropped his plans to try to amend the bill so it would ban smoking in most public places throughout Virginia.
“If we change as much as one comma, this bill will be dead in the House,” he said.
