Here is an excerpt from an article posted on the internet on 12/20/02.....
"A compromise worked out between New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and the City Council paves the way for smoking to be prohibited in most public establishments and workplaces in the city, the Associated Press reported Dec. 12.
Under current city law, smoking is banned in restaurants with more than 35 seats. However, smoking is permitted in stand-alone bars within restaurants.
The proposed smoking ban would apply to almost all restaurants and bars, pool halls, bingo parlors, bowling alleys, and offices.
As a result of a compromise between Bloomberg and council members, outdoor cafes, bars with specially ventilated smoking rooms, private clubs, nursing homes with smoking rooms, and existing cigar bars would be exempt from the ban."
An important addition not mentioned above but that I read in another article states that once a cigar bar closes, another one is NOT allowed to open in it's place. This includes taking over the business and renaming it!!
A side note to New Yorkers.....
The new law also does not include McSorleys Ale House, which if your from NY you know the place. McSorleys Ale House is a Historical Landmark and is not subject to the smoking laws. This I was told from one of the bar employees after I asked where the bars ventilation system was and he pointed to a side door that was open a crack and said "Here is our ventilation system" After which he explained what I wrote above.
If your a smoker and come to NYC, I have two excellent establishments to choose from -
McSorleys Ale House or The Gingerman cigar bar
Both excellent choices!!