Separate ventilated rooms for smokers would be required - a move that has been dubbed an effective ban in smaller pubs and eating places.
Most Opposition parties are likely to vote against the changes.
However, Green MP Sue Kedgley said her party supported their general thrust because passive smoking was a significant health issue. But I don't think we should be turning smokers into lepers. The Greens were yet to be briefed in detail, but might put forward some amendments. Ms Kedgley said the 50 per cent restriction might be impractical, and she had concerns for staff in areas where smoking would be allowed including clubs. Details of the planned changes are due to be tabled in Parliament next week and will be referred to a select committee.