BOSTON (AP) – Don’t try to sneak a cigarette after the state’s indoor smoking ban takes effect on Monday. Public health officials say they plan to aggressively pursue violators.

The ban, enacted by the Legislature earlier this year, prohibits smoking in all work places, restaurants and bars in the state.

The state Department of Public Health has set up a complaint line and also plans a public information campaign to educate business owners, workers and the public about the law.

Smokers are subject to a $100 fine for each violation of the law, while business owners who allow smoking in their establishment face fines of up to $300.

Private clubs and cigar bars are exempt from the ban.

The state will continue to hold training sessions for local boards of health, which have the primary responsibility for enforcing the new law.

Town wants impact studies

BENNINGTON, Vt. (AP) – Bennington could become the first Vermont town to require large retailers to prove they would not harm the community if they want a permit to do business.

The Planning Commission is about to ask the Select Board to approve a zoning bylaw that would require stores larger than 20,000 square feet to pay for an independent “community impact” study.

The proposed requirement, which was applauded at a public hearing Wednesday night, would be waived for downtown businesses.

Governer allows Canadian drugs

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (AP) – A bill that will allow the state Department of Health to issues licenses to Canadian pharmacies became law without the governor’s signature.

The new law removes an obstacle for Rhode Islanders seeking to buy prescription medicines from Canada, where they are often substantially cheaper.

Carcieri had announced his support for the bill in April, but earlier this week said he might veto it. Several business and health groups as well as two major drug makers lobbied for a veto, saying the imported drugs would endanger health and stifle the biotechnology industry.