Rounds signs smoking ban

Melissa Fose

Melissa Fose

Gov. Mike Rounds signed a bill March 19 to make all bars and restaurants in South Dakota smoke-free, starting July 1.

The new legislation is an addition to current law that prohibits smoking in other businesses and public buildings.

Exceptions for the bill include motel rooms, tobacco shops and cigar bars.

HB1240 was passed in the House 21-14 and in the Senate 11-2.