Wisconsin lawmakers agree on smoking ban

MADISON, Wis., May 7 (UPI) -- Legislators and lobbyists in Wisconsin have agreed on a smoking law that would ban cigarettes from all workplaces, including bars and restaurants.

A bill is expected to pass next week and to be signed by Gov. Jim Doyle, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. The ban takes effect July 5, 2010, giving businesses more than a year to get ready for it.

"As soon as this bill takes effect, it will start saving lives of our citizens and saving money for our taxpayers," said Sen. Fred Risser, a Democrat from Madison and one of the sponsors.

Under the bill, existing cigar shops and Indian casinos would be exempt. Local governments could only pass stricter laws for their own property.

Businesses would be allowed to set up outdoor areas where smoking would be allowed.

People caught smoking would face stiff fines. Businesses that enforce the ban would not be penalized for a first offense but could be for subsequent offenses.