Jindal Signs New Bans On Smoking In Public Places

BATON ROUGE, La. (AP) — Smoking will be prohibited near Louisiana's elementary and secondary schools and the entrances of state-owned office buildings.

Gov. Bobby Jindal's office announced Monday that both bills have been signed into law.

The bill by New Orleans Sen. David Heitmeier will ban smoking within 200 feet of entrances, exits and outdoor areas of any public or private elementary and secondary school in Louisiana. It takes effect immediately.

The second measure by West Monroe Rep. Frank Hoffmann will ban smoking within 25 feet of a public entrance to a state-owned office building. It takes effect Jan. 1.

Violators of either law face fines of $25 on a first offense, $50 for a second offense and $100 for additional offenses.