Both houses of Minnesota's legislature passed a bill that would outlaw smoking in bars, restaurants, and other establishments, the Associated Press reported on May 12. Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty is expected to sign the bill into law. 

If enacted, the law would make Minnesota the 20th state to forbid smoking in bars and restaurants. Violations of the new law would carry fines of up to $300.

In 1975, Minnesota became the first state to limit smoking to designated areas in public places and meetings. "We had lost an edge in terms of leading on that issue and now we're back," said Mike Maguire of the American Cancer Society. "This is where the country is going."

But Rep. Bud Heidgerken, a Republican who runs a cafe in Freeport, Minn., opposed the bill. "I for one don't like you putting your nose in my business," he said. "That's my air in that café, not yours. If you don't want to come, don't come."

Under the bill, local governments could enact stricter anti-smoking ordinances, including outdoor smoking restrictions.