State set to go smoke-free on Sunday

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - The statewide smoke-free air law goes into effect on Sunday. The law specifically says that people will not be allowed to smoke within 8 feet of a public entrance to a public place or a place of employment.

This legislation is not as strict as Indianapolis’. The use of cigarettes, cigars, pipes and other lighted tobacco products are allowed in bars, horse racing facilities, casinos, river boats and cigar and hookah bars. But this takes a back seat to those 42 cities, towns and counties that already have ordinances, like Indianapolis.

Those businesses that are going smoke-free will be forced to hang signs depending on what part of the law applies to them. Bars that are exempt from the law must hang signs that say, "Smoking is allowed in this establishment." Signs will also describe what is not allowed, including "state law prohibits smoking within 8 feet of this entrance," "smoking is prohibited in this restaurant," and "cigarette smoking is prohibited."

The State Department of Health has made a website called breatheindiana.com . It offers a tool kit for businesses to transition into being smoke-free. It has an employee training guide, business checklist, coasters, posters and a quick reference guide.