Virginia Governor Tim Kaine has proposed a statewide smoking ban in restaurants. Kaine’s proposal would exclude exterior dining areas. He was joined by elected officials, public health advocates and a group that represents restaurants in announcing his proposed ban.Kaine said the ban is needed to protect workers and patrons from second-hand smoke. The General Assembly passed legislation last year that would have required restaurants that allow smoking to post a “Smoking Permitted” sign on the door, and in return they would no longer have to offer a nonsmoking section. Kaine amended the bill to ban smoking in restaurants statewide. The House of Delegates voted 59-40 to reject the amendment, so Kaine vetoed the bill.