Press Releases

ONTARIO LEGISLATURE VOTES ON BILL

BANNING SMOKING IN PUBLIC PLACES

(Queen's Park) April 14, 2005 Bill 164, which bans smoking in public places received second reading in the Ontario Legislature today.

Frank Klees, MPP for Oak Ridges, voted against the bill because the government has not made any provision or exception for those businesses that have, at their own expense, installed separately ventilated designated smoking rooms.

"This is a significant flaw in this bill," said Klees. "I believe that it is wrong and patently unfair for government to impose this restriction on business after requiring them to invest thousands of dollars to construct designated smoking rooms. While I strongly support any initiative to reduce the harmful effects of smoking, I also believe in the principle of choice. This government bill removes that choice from individuals and business owners. I hope during committee proceedings that the government will accept an amendment to assist those businesses who went to the expense of constructing designated smoking rooms and were in compliance with the requirements of the day. "

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For more information contact:

Frank Klees, MPP

Oak Ridges

905-707-3160

UPDATES

May 31, 2005

Debate on Bill 164

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