The Washington, D.C. Council today approved a broad ban on smoking in District bars and restaurants.

Mayor Anthony A. Williams (D) has threatened to veto the bill, but supporters have more than enough votes to override a veto.
The ban, which passed by a vote of 11-1, is modelled closely on similar restrictions in New York City. The District ban would first apply to all restaurant dining rooms upon enactment and then extend to bars, nightclubs and taverns in January 2007.
The ban would take effect after the 30-day congressional review period. (pi)