BISMARCK, N.D. (AP Mar 26, 2013)  – North Dakota lawmakers have endorsed a bill that would provide signage for business owners to help them comply with a new statewide smoking ban.
 
     North Dakota’s Senate unanimously passed the bill on Monday. The House passed the measure earlier.
 
     The new law passed by voters in November expands the ban to bars, motels, private nursing homes, cabs and public transportation. It also prohibits smoking within 20 feet of an entrance to a public building. 
 
     Republican Rep. Blair Thoreson (THOR’-suhn) of Fargo is one of the bill’s sponsors. He also owns a bar. Thoreson says that there are expensive costs involved in complying with the new law, including signage. 
 
     The Center for Tobacco Prevention and Control Policy will provide signage if it’s requested.