The Alberta legislature approved the provincial smoking ban that will prohibit lighting up in most public places in the province starting Jan. 1.
Bill 45 passed third reading Wednesday afternoon, eliminating some of the smoking exceptions currently allowed for bars, bingo halls and casinos.
The Tobacco Reduction Act also bans displays such as "power walls" showcasing tobacco products in convenience stores starting July 1, 2008.
Effective Jan. 1, 2009, pharmacies, health facilities and public post-secondary schools in Alberta will not be allowed to sell tobacco products.
Every year, 3,400 Albertans die from tobacco-related causes and health-care costs attributed to tobacco use totals $471 million annually, according to the province.
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