Fresh Air Campaign

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Mayor Villaraigosa went to LA Live today, to introduce a new Fresh Air Dining Campaign that's serving a side of fresh air with every meal. The ban will begin March 8th, that smoking will not be allowed within 10 feet of outdoor dining areas or within 40 feet of food trucks. Restaurants and food trucks will be required to post visible "no smoking" signs outside their place of business. If you decide to smoke within these restricted limits, you will face a fine of 500 dollars.

We have heard for years that secondhand smoke is harmful to our health. It is filled with over 4,000 chemicals that can lead to cancer and premature deaths. Dr. Kathy Magliado, a cardio vascular surgeon, says she sees the effect of secondhand smoke everyday. She says secondhand smoke it not fair, because the people affected are innocent victims. LA Live says all of its restaurant owners unanimously support of this new law and will enforce it. Dean Schartz, the owner of Dino's Gourmet Pizza, knows first hand, the effects of second hand smoke. After spending over 20 years in the restaurant and bar business, his exposure to secondhand smoke has caused him chronic respiratory problems. He states that everyday is a struggle for him.

The California Department of Health services did a survey in 2005 that showed 93% prefer to eat in restaurants that are smoke free. Looks like this new law will be good for our health and good for business.