The New Hampshire Senate recently voted 17-7 to ban smoking in all restaurants and bars, and the measure is expected to easily pass the House, as well.

The Manchester Union-Leader reported Feb. 23 that 79 percent of state residents support a ban on most indoor smoking. "The people of New Hampshire have made up their minds on the issue and it's the responsibility of the Legislature to take definitive action," said bill sponsor Sen. David Gottesman.

Republican lawmakers tried unsuccessfully to amend the measure to include smoking bans in more public spaces, arguing that it was unfair to limit the law to restaurants and bars. But the Senate turned down amendments calling for smoking bans at Little League and soccer games, college dorms, social and veterans clubs, foster homes and other venues.

"I believe we are taking the rights of restaurant owners away from them," said Sen. Joseph Kenney, a Republican. "Why don't we simply ban tobacco in its entirety?"

The measure was praised by Kevin O'Flaherty, regional director of the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. "The sooner this bill becomes law, the sooner we'll all be breathing easier," he said.