Some employees may no longer suffer from second-hand smoke if the state legislature moves ahead with plans of a statewide smoking ban.

The measure is likely to pass and be signed by Governor Jim Doyle.

Health advocates are rejoicing that Wisconsin will likely be the next state to make the change.

"It's been very clear for quite awhile that this was going to happen so businesses have had the opportunity to prepare," said Julie Willems Van Dijk, Marathon County's health officer.

But not everyone's thrilled.

The owner of Treu's Tic Toc in Wausau fears his bar and restaurant will take a hit.

"I think a little bit but there are other factors now, the economy and the drunk driving laws and a lot of things are affecting the hospitality business," said Jim Treu.

He plans to make a few adjustments, including an outdoor smoking area.

"Which is a great thing this time of year, not so great when it's January and 20 below," he said.

Treu feels the government is taking away personal freedoms.

But no one has banned smoking itself.

"An individual has a right to smoke but an individual does not have a right to smoke in a place that puts other people's health at risk," said Willems Van Dijk.

And she has the Attorney General's 700 page report that she believes justifies that second-hand smoke kills to prove it.

If passed, the statewide ban would take effect July 5th, 2010.

Individuals caught smoking inside a business could get fined up to $250.