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Atlanta’s ban on smoking officially begins

FILE - In this Friday, Jan. 18, 2019 file photo, a customer blows a cloud of smoke from a vape pipe at a local shop in Richmond, Va. Although e-cigarettes arent considered as risky as regular cigarettes, new research published Monday, May 27, 2019, finds a clue that their flavorings may be bad for the heart. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
FILE - In this Friday, Jan. 18, 2019 file photo, a customer blows a cloud of smoke from a vape pipe at a local shop in Richmond, Va. Although e-cigarettes arent considered as risky as regular cigarettes, new research published Monday, May 27, 2019, finds a clue that their flavorings may be bad for the heart. (AP Photo/Steve Helber)
By Stephen Deere
Jan 3, 2020

The city of Atlanta’s ban on smoking and vaping in most public places went into effect on Thursday.

In July, the Atlanta City Council approved legislation prohibiting smoking and vaping indoors, including bars and restaurants, with a 13-2 vote.

Cigar bars and hookah lounges are exempt from the ban.

“Everyone in Atlanta has the right to breathe smoke-free air,” said City Councilman Matt Westmoreland, who introduced the legislation. “I am grateful for the strong collaboration between the business community and healthcare advocates as we developed this legislation.”

About the Author

Stephen Deere covers Atlanta City Hall and Atlanta government.

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