There are two sides to this coin, well, maybe three.  On one side we have the non-smokers who have been anxiously awaiting December 1, 2009 to finally roll around.  One the other side we have the smokers who are upset that they will no longer be able to enjoy a cigarette with their meal.  And on the third side we have the tobacco industry that is losing the public smoking battle in pro-tobacco states.  So, how is this law going to effect us? 

1.  The following places are exempt from the law:  private clubs, hot dog stands, catering services, pushcart services, outdoor areas of restaurants that are not enclosed in any way except roofing, restaurants located on the premises of tobacco producers, and any portion of a restaurant that is structurally separated from the non-smokers with its own ventilation system and there is at least one public entrance into the non-smoking area. 

2.  The new law does effect bars and lounges since food must be served in order to receive an on-premise ABC license. 

3.  Smoking is prohibited in restrooms.  Yes, just like in an airplane. 

For a comprehensive list of FAQ visit Restaurants and Smoking in Virginia FAQs. 

Violators of the smoking ban face a $25.00 fine as do the restaurant owners.