Gov. Jim Doyle signed into law a statewide ban on smoking in workplaces, including bars and restaurants, at the state Capitol May 18.
Existing cigar bars and tobacco shops will not be affected by the ban, but any that open after the bill's effective date must be smoke-free. The ban will begin July 5, 2010.
Thirty-seven Wisconsin communities already have local smoking bans in effect, according to a statement from Doyle's office. Doyle said more than 70 percent of people in Wisconsin support a ban on smoking in all public buildings.
Doyle said the bill would have passed years ago, but until very recently the leadership in the state Assembly would not let it come to a vote.
""Today is a day that we can all take a deep breath and enjoy the accomplishment that will occur here today,"" he said at the signing.
Many of the people involved in writing the bill have experienced the loss of a loved one because of a smoking-related illness, Doyle said. He emphasized the health risks for both smokers and nonsmokers associated with firsthand and secondhand smoke.
Doyle said it is estimated that more than 8,000 people in Wisconsin die from tobacco-related illnesses each year.
""A smoke-free Wisconsin will save money in health-care costs, improve public health and save lives,"" Doyle said in the statement.
According to Pete Madland, executive director of the Tavern League of Wisconsin, passage of the smoking ban required compromise between bar owners and lawmakers.
""They will have to adjust to it. We hope all of those nonsmokers will start coming in and live up to their word,"" Madland said.
The Tavern League negotiated the 2010 effective date into the bill and said its members are satisfied with the bill ""for the most part.""
Earlier this year, Doyle increased the cigarette tax by $1, and he previously introduced the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line.
""I wish the ban would be implemented sooner, but I am proud the state is embracing the healthy direction the world is going,"" he said.
