Montana smoking ban, one year later

Montana smoking ban, one year later

Smoking ban a blow

to Montana businesses, but no knock out

Zachy White

Thursday is the last day of the 2010 fiscal calendar, which means the next day marks the first anniversary of Montana's indoor smoking ban in bars and taverns.

Although the facts about the effect of the ban's first year are limited, there are still many strong opinions about the issue from several sides.

The strongest mix of these views are held by Montana Tavern Association members.

The "hospitality industry" advocacy group held its annual meeting in Havre two weeks ago where many of the...