A new government Web site has been launched to ease the transition with a new law that requires restaurants, bars and lodging establishments that serve food and drink to go smoke-free as of January 2, 2010.

The Web site, www.SmokeFree.NC.gov, provides business owners and customers information on the new law, on the health hazards of secondhand smoke and on resources to help those smokers who may want to quit smoking. There are downloadable fact sheets, no-smoking signs and other tools to help make the transition to smoke-free air an easy one.

"This change is historic for North Carolina and will have a significant positive impact on public health," said Gov. Bev Perdue. "By banning smoking in our restaurants and bars, we will greatly reduce the dangers of secondhand smoke and lower health care costs for families. Our goal is to make sure North Carolina's families and businesses have the information they need about the hazards of second-hand smoke and how to implement the new law."

The new law (G.S. 130A-497) was passed by the General Assembly and signed by Governor Bev Perdue in May, and will make virtually all indoor areas of restaurants and bars in the state smoke-free, with very few exceptions.

The North Carolina Restaurant and Lodging Association has provided input on key aspects of the website, including the signs that are recommended for use.

About 24,000 establishments are covered by the new law. They are currently being reached by mail with a packet and letter signed by local health directors. Local health departments are responsible for enforcing the law.

In addition to the website, North Carolinians can get information about the new law by calling the CARE-LINE at 1-800-662-7030 (Bilingual services are available in over 150 languages.) 7 a.m. - 11 p.m., seven days a week. If calling between the hours of 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., you may leave a message and your call will be returned.