In Search of Clear Focus

Lisa Rein reports in the Washington Post that the governor of Maryland has signed a statewide smoking ban to begin in February, 2008.

Maryland will join 18 states and the District in prohibiting lighting up in bars and restaurants, under legislation signed into law yesterday by Gov. Martin O’Malley.

The smoking ban applies to private clubs and other membership organizations. Bars and restaurants can seek hardship waivers from local health departments. Baltimore and several counties, including Montgomery and Prince George’s, already prohibit smoking in eating establishments.

It’s just a sham(e) that Virginia can’t get with the program on a smoking ban. I don’t think anyone is surprised, given the influence of tobacco in the state, but it is time to be a little progressive. Actually, it’s hardly progressive, given the large number of other states that have already done this. Heck, it would be nice if the state legislature would at least allow counties to choose if they want such a ban, instead of putting up roadblock to such efforts.