On January 1, 2008, the Smoke-Free Illinois Act went into effect. It prohibits smoking in public places and workplaces, both inside and within 15 feet of entrances, exits and windows. Supporters of the bans at the time touted the health benefits of banning smoking, pointing to the effects of secondhand smoke, for example. Opponents of the bans worried about the effect they would have on businesses, like restaurants and bars. But what once was controversial now seems all but commonplace.

GUESTS

Kristina Hamilton

Director of Advocacy, American Lung Association in Illinois and Iowa

Angie Bailey

System Director of Community Health with Southern Illinois Healthcare

Marilynn Martin

Co-owner, Mary Lou’s Grill, Carbondale

Pete Gwizdala

Illinois Licensed Beverage Association (ILBA) State President; Owner, Crazy Times Pub & Grub, Machesney Park