Ohio, Arizona and Nevada will become the 15th, 16th and 17th states in the US to implement comprehensive smoke-free legislation for workers including those in restaurants and bars.

Joe Cherner, president of SmokeFree Educational Services, said: “Although opponents spent more money [on campaigning]… it’s refreshing to see health come out on top.  What a wonderful day for Ohio, Arizona and Nevada workers who will soon be able to enjoy safe, clean air in their workplaces.”

The votes follow decisions to outlaw smoking in California, Delaware, Vermont, Washington, New Jersey, Utah, Colorado, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Washington DC.

France recently announced it would ban smoking in enclosed public places from February of next year, although it has given some cafés, night clubs and bars a temporary reprieve.

Scots still support smoking ban >>

Westminster City Council seeks to ban smoking in the streets >>

What can Irish ban teach the UK >>

By Emily Manson

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