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News-7 Poll: 65% of Virginians favor restaurant smoking ban

A News-7 statewide poll shows almost two-thirds of Virginians support a statewide smoking ban in restaurants. The poll was conducted as state legislators prepare to take up the issue in Wednesday's Veto Session.

SurveyUSA asked 500 adults across the state whether they want to see smoking banned in restaurants statewide, and 65% responded they did.

The General Assembly passed Delegate Morgan Griffith's bill prohibiting smoking in restaurants, with one important exception: it would still be permitted when the owner posts a sign saying it is.

Governor Tim Kaine amended the bill, however, to prohibit smoking in all restaurants at all times. State Senator Brandon Bell supports Kaine; he says the ban is necessary to protect restaurant employees, who are forced to breath tobacco smoke.

Many in the hospitality industry fear the sky's the limit under the proposed law, a debate sparked by the how Virginia defines restaurants.

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Asked of 500 Adults-- Margin of Sampling Error for this question = ± 4.3%

If you had to choose, would you want to see smoking banned from restaurants in Virginia? Or allowed in restaurants?

65% Banned

32% Allowed

3% Not Sure