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"Who knows what other side effects second-hand smoke has in store for us?

" she said in a shaky voice.

"I never smoked, and yet I have paid the price with my health." Lindquist's plea was part of a lengthy debate yesterday that touched on science, economics and personal experience.

Supporters of the ban say it will protect restaurant workers from secondhand smoke and reduce the incidence of Opponents see the ban as a step toward a "nanny state" and a violation of New Hampshire's traditionally hands-off form of government.

The ban, which excludes bars at private clubs, such as those run by the American Legion, passed the House earlier this month, 189-156.

Many around the State House expect the vote in the Senate will be even closer.

Several Republicans, including Clegg, oppose the bill, but lobbyists on both sides are working hard to sway the few undecided members.

-ADVERTISEMENT- Sheila Evans, a lobbyist for Clean Air Works for New Hampshire, said she hopes senators feel election-year pressure and heed a study that shows 79 percent of New Hampshire residents support the ban.

The House vote and Lynch's promise to...