Governor Rendell Signs Bill Restricting Smoking in Most Public Places in Pe...(te is owned leased or operated by a stat...),Health

Establishments will have a 90-day phase-in period to allow for necessary changes to come in to compliance with the new law. During this time, the Pennsylvania Department of Health will implement its plans for information, education and awareness to the general public and businesses about the requirements of the new legislation, and provide technical assistance to businesses in the implementation of no smoking policies.

In a signing letter to members of the General Assembly, the Governor noted that he shared the concerns of many citizens and some legislators that an even more comprehensive clean indoor air act can become law. He said he was particularly sympathetic to those citizens in Allegheny County, Scranton and other municipalities and believes it would be right and fair for state law to allow for the preservation of their forward-thinking local ordinances in addition to the ordinance adopted by the City of Philadelphia.

To learn more about this new legislation, visit http://www.health.state.pa.us , or for help in quitting smoking go to http://www.determinedtoquit.com or the helpline at 1-800-QUIT-NOW (1-800-784-8669). For additional information on the Governor's innovative Prescription for Pennsylvania health care reform plan, please visit http://www.rxforpa.com .

The Rendell administration is committed to creating a first-rate public education system, protecting our most vulnerable citizens and continuing economic investment to support our communities and businesses. To find out more about Governor Rendell's initiatives and to sign
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