SD Governor Signs Ban On Smoking In Bars, Casinos

PIERRE, S.D. — South Dakota Gov. Mike Rounds has signed a law banning smoking from nearly all indoor public places, including bars, video lottery casinos and gambling halls.

The governor signed the law Thursday. He said most people agree that bar and restaurant workers shouldn’t have to choose between their jobs and smoke-free air.

Beginning July 1, smoking will be allowed only in motel rooms and a limited number of cigar bars and smoke shops.

The ban could cut state revenue from gambling. An economist from the governor’s budget office has said a smoking ban could cut video lottery revenue by 15 percent to 25 percent.

Twenty-four states and the District of Columbia have banned smoking in most public places, including bars and restaurants.