On December 18, 2009, Governor Granholm signed a smoking ban bill into law. This new law, called the Dr. Ron Davis Law, will be put into action on May 1, 2010. The Dr. Ron Davis Law will officially ban smoking throughout the state of Michigan. Smoking will be banned in all public places including workplaces, restaurants, and bars. This law even goes as far as to ban smoking on the patios of restaurants.
I went out to a local hangout Thursday night and had a blast. I went with a good group, saw some people I have not seen in years, and met some new friends. It was a blast. The smoke was awful but mostly in the background after a while. My clothes reeked when I got home and my lungs took a hit. I can't complain because I went to a bar where its prevalent. I had choices, and I chose to be there.
For me, I welcome the new law. The same establishment won't be the same ever again. Some won't go back as much or the regulars might leave earlier than normal. I will argue that this will balance out with other folks going out when they normally wouldn't because of their health choices. Time will tell.
My thoughts on tonight was the Great Michigan Smokout ... Maybe, maybe not. I don't know, I was home with my wife and a great bottle of wine.
