Input on smoking ban remains mixed

Timothy M. Kaine announced this week that he will once again ask legislators to ban smoking in virtually all restaurants.

Kaine's bill would make smoking in any place that prepares and serves food -- public restaurant or private club -- punishable by a $25 civil penalty.

The bill excludes outdoor dining areas of food establishments, unless the exterior area can be enclosed.

Legislators have trod this ground before, in 2007 and 2008.

"Those bills have passed the Senate for the past three or four years, and have picked up some more support," Kaine said.

"I've always opposed them. I know that fair-minded people may disagree over this, but I feel like it's a decision that ought to be made in the private sector," said Sen.