SMOKING BAN COULD MEAN NEW PATIO RULES
The statewide smoking ban, which went into effect Oct. 1 and
prohibits smoking in bars and restaurants, has prompted suburban
businesses to plan outdoor patios. In turn, suburbs are
considering slapping more regulations on them.
"I'm not too sure what I'm going to do. Right now it's pretty
early, but it does appear (the ban) is going to reduce our
sales," Speiker said. "I'd hate to see the city put in any more
regulations or requirements for businesses, but that's just
me."
Patios began popping up throughout St. Paul and Minneapolis in
2005, when citywide and partial smoking bans went into effect.
