Its about the reduction in smokers to a percentage number below that which could swing a vote.
The rest of this is simple rationalization.
We had someone in NJ decide that smoking should be banned in cars. Personal vehicles. His thought process...lighting the cigarette was a distraction, so his law was no different than hands free cell phones.
Imric is right. It is about forcing one side. There are health effects, all of these can be managed through. I disagree that the ban should apply to private clubs. Public facilities, including pubs...smokers are a minority now and should expect to be treated as such.
And while you may argue that x has a right to y...keep in mind what rights are ACTUALLY guaranteed you. A smoke-free workplace is not one of those things.