Michigan's workplace smoking ban begins Saturday, includes bars, restaurants

4/30/2010

LANSING, Mich. — Most Michigan workplaces including bars and restaurants go smoke-free at 6 a.m. Saturday.

Some smokers, businesses and private clubs aren't happy about the ban. But state officials say most people support the ban because of its health benefits.

The law comes with some notable exceptions. Gambling floors at Detroit's three casinos are exempt from the ban. So are the state's 20 casinos run by Indian tribes, which aren't subject to the state law.

Cigar bars and tobacco specialty shops that meet certain criteria also are exempt.

Citizens who note a smoking violation are asked to first contact the business owner or manager to deal with the problem. If that fails, a complaint can be filed with local health departments.