Pierce County, where I live, recently became the first county in Washington State to prohibit smoking in all public places, including not only bars and restaurants, but motels, as well. Unfortunately, the ban cannot apply to Native American casinos or restaurants inside Pierce County, because of the Sovereign Nation status of the tribes. Amazingly, although smoking bans have gone into effect in major cities and counties all over the country without negative impact on businesses, it is apparently having a major negative impact on businesses in Pierce County. The issue will now be decided on the November ballot.
