Nevada County Picayune and Gurdon Times Newspaper Archive

State smoking ban is now in effect

Many businesses in Prescott will see little or no changes with regard to the Arkansas Clean Air Act which went into effect Friday, July 21.

Edie Greenwood, Nevada County Health Unit Administrator, said several area businesses are already smoke free, meaning they wont make any changes.

The law basically states that smoking will not be allowed at any business open to the public. Greenwood said that includes small businesses with limited clientele. The only exceptions allowed will be for those who ask to be exempt. Greenwood said proving the need to be exempt wont be easy. She said any business that does obtain an exemption will be required to post a notice to that effect.

The bill was prompted by the detrimental effects of second-hand smoke. Greenwood said that there has naturally been some opposition, but said many people can see the positive impact of this regulation.

Its going to help our children more than it does us, Greenwood said.

The Nevada County Cancer Society has provided signs for a number of area businesses. Smaller laminated signs are also available. Anyone who wants the signs may pick them up while supplies last at the health department.