Sign of the times: No Smoking

Smokers will have to puff their cigarettes at least 20 feet from the entrances to bars, restaurants and other businesses when a new smoking law takes effect next Thursday.

“We’re throwing the ashtrays away,” said Pat Walters, manager of the Tahiti Nui in Hanalei.

The statewide measure pushes the practice out of public enclaves where it had not already been barred by the county — including outdoor seating areas in places like Kukui Grove.

“We’re going to be abiding by the law by being ‘interiorly’ smoke free,” said Jonell Kaohelauli‘i, marketing director.

Roving security guards will carry information cards that remind patrons not to light up, she said.

Anti-tobacco groups, local business leaders and the state Department of Health have launched campaigns to prepare businesses and smokers for the new law.

“The first thing we want to do is to make sure everyone is aware,” said Randall Francisco, president of the Kaua‘i Chamber of Commerce. “It’s not a choice; it’s a law.”

Businesses will be required to post no-smoking signs at all entrances. Smoking will be banned within 20 feet of a doorway or ventilation system.

Businesses that fail to comply with the law can be fined $100 on the first offense, $200 on the second, and up to $500 for additional citations.

“We’re hoping this is going to change the societal norms so it doesn’t become an enforcement issue but an acceptable way to act,” said Charles Roessler, coordinator of Tobacco-Free Kaua‘i.

Kukui Grove will host the American Cancer Society’s smoking cessation event, called the Great American Smokeout, on Friday at 4:30 p.m.

The event will feature martial arts demonstrations, music and support for aspiring non-smokers, as well as free no-smoking signs for businesses.

To obtain more information and to download no-smoking signs, visit www.hawaiismokefree.com.