Fears of economic disaster have not been realized. The North Carolina Medical Journal reported recently that stringent second-hand smoke regulations have had no adverse economic impact on restaurant sales in five North Carolina counties. The key seems to be whether a tough bylaw makes the whole hospitality industry go cold turkey at once. Vancouver started with a total ban in restaurants and most other businesses in December 1996. Adult-oriented operations were required to provide a minimum of 30 per cent smoke free areas.
Smokers drink more beer than non-smokers.
A lot of our customers used to have a beer and cigarette while waiting for their order and maybe another beer and cigarette after they finished eating. After the bylaw, they'd come in and order a Coke instead. They said they liked having a cigarette with their beer. And they didn't stay as long. Stevenson thinks restaurant owners won't find Victoria's bylaw as objectionable.