Other than a few people complaining that smoking was still happening, it’s been popular, he said. “I see all the locals; they come just like they did last year.”

On the health of his employees, Zlatanov said, “The way I see it, when they come here and they see the ashtray, they know right away. They see me smoking inside, they should know what they’re getting themselves into.

“If smoking really concerns their health, when they put their applications in, I have to tell them they have to find a job somewhere else.”

He added that it’s hard to take away smoking from bar-goers. “It’s like taking their freedom away. I was in the military four years, I fought for this country, this is my bar. Whether I have an exemption or not, I think it’s wrong for them to take my freedom away.”

Zlatanov said he hopes to pick up some of the Ohio smokers who have to deal with a more stingent state law without Pennsylvania’s exemptions.

Approving the rest of the state’s exemptions will take time, Ms. Kriedeman said. Someone has to come to the site and inspect the establishment, making sure the smoking area is separate from the dining area, with separate ventilation and entrances.

There is also a Department of Health helpline for people who have questions or want to report a complaint. It’s at 1-877-835-9535 or www.health. state.pa.us