Enacted September 12, it is now against the law for businesses to allow smokers to smoke on outside patios of restaurants. With this new law it makes Maine the third state in the country to ban smoking in outside dining areas. Governor Baldacci signed the new law in an effort to decrease second-head smoke exposure.
Locally the new law affects businesses and smokers. The City Park Grill in Old Town has a patio where previously smokers used to be able to have a drink or something to eat while smoking. The restaurant is located alongside the Penobscot river where many people walk and ride bicycles nearby.
The state of Maine followed suit after Portland passed a similar bill earlier. Many smokers are against the law and feels as though it single them out. While many other smokers do not feel as though it affects them as much.
Cody Bishop, Old Town Resident discusses how the new law is unconstitutional.
Most of the aggravation against the new law isn't from smokers, it's from business owners. Restaurant owners are upset that they spent money into making outdoor smoking areas in order to attract smoking patrons, only to see that money now gone.
Josh Kahn of Old Town has a restaurant that has been in his family for several years. Kahn is actually in favor of the new law and feels as though it will be a good thing for Maine
Check in often for more updates on this pressing issue. More points of views from Old Town residents will be shared along with further insight into the new law and how it is affecting our state.
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