UPDATE: As the Great American Smokeout approaches, Grand Forks restaurants are facing intense scrutiny over their compliance with North Dakota’s new anti-smoking law, which took effect on July 1, 1987. A recent visit by the Grand Forks Herald to a dozen local eateries reveals a patchwork of responses to the legislation, raising questions about the effectiveness of designated smoking areas.
The law requires that public places, including restaurants, be presumed non-smoking unless explicitly marked as “Designated Smoking Area.” This stipulation has led to a wide divergence in how establishments accommodate smokers and non-smokers, impacting the dining experience for thousands of patrons daily.
At the Royal Fork Buffet in Columbia Mall, manager Darl Bruner reports that 60 percent of the seating is allocated for non-smokers, with clear signage and a partition ensuring separation. On average, over 1,200 customers dine here daily, and since the law’s implementation, Bruner has only had to relocate a couple of smokers to maintain compliance.
Across town, the Tomahawk Cafe has adopted a more balanced approach, with equal seating—70 seats each for smoking and non-smoking. Manager Sheamus Kuklok highlights that both sections are identical, catering equally to patrons’ preferences.
However, not all establishments have made significant changes. The Shangri-La Restaurant, with 250 seats, has designated only half for non-smokers without any physical barrier, allowing smoke to drift into non-smoking areas. This lack of separation has raised concerns among diners.
As of now, the Grand Forks Public Health Department has received only a handful of complaints regarding the law. Debbie Swanson, a public health nurse, noted that only three or four concerns have been filed, indicating a possible acceptance of the new regulations among the community.
In contrast, the LaCampana Mexican Restaurant has plans to enhance its non-smoking areas significantly. Currently, only one-third of its seating—about 60 seats—is smoke-free, but renovations aimed for completion by the end of the month will create a dedicated non-smoking section, expanding capacity for non-smokers.
The challenges faced by these restaurants underscore a broader issue: balancing individual preferences with public health concerns. As the community adjusts to this law, the dialogue around smoking in dining establishments remains urgent and relevant.
With the Great American Smokeout just around the corner, the impact of these regulations is palpable. Diners and restaurant owners alike are navigating this changing landscape, making decisions that could influence public perception and patronage.
Stay tuned for further developments as these restaurateurs adapt to the new normal and as the community continues to voice its opinions on smoking regulations. The conversation is ongoing, and your dining experience in Grand Forks may soon reflect these changes even more dramatically.
