WI smoking ban affects Lambeau crowd

GREEN BAY - Despite the Packers win over the Bills Sunday, there were some unhappy fans at Lambeau Field.

Wisconsin's statewide smoking ban means no more lighting up in the stadium concourse, and that caused some problems during the home opener.

Before kickoff, many fans who smoke were taking in their last cigarette knowing they wouldn't get another chance once they entered the stadium.

“I don't like it one bit. I think we should all have a choice of our own to smoke where we want to smoke, when we want to smoke,” said Ismael Mateo of Milwaukee.

But the statewide smoking ban applies to Lambeau Field not only because it is a sports arena, but also a workplace. Some smokers say they'll just have to adjust.

“It's no different then getting on an airplane,” said Beth Abrahamson of Superior, Michigan.

Abrahamson said she smokes a cigarette about every hour.

No smoking for the three hour game could be challenging, so would she risk sneaking a smoke inside?

“No, no, no! I saw somebody do that the last game we were at and somebody caught them, so it's not a good thing to do. I don't want to get kicked out of the game,” said Abrahamson.

But not every smoker took the new rule so well. And a couple hours into the game the smoking ban was heating up some fans.

At halftime, Green Bay Police had to stop crowds of smokers who wanted to have a cigarette inside the concourse. The only place smokers can go now is outside. And once you go outside, you can't come back.

Some people surprised by the smoking ban argued with police.

Others cooperated and returned to the game, but a few snuck a smoke right at the gate just a few feet away from police.

“We're not going to catch everyone,” said Green Bay police Lt. Jude Trimberger.

Trimberger says most smokers are aware of the rule, and follow it, while others are still taking it in.

“A lot of them just don't believe you can't smoke in Lambeau anymore,” said Trimberger.

They don't believe it, and don't like it.

“It shouldn't be no problem, we're outside anyways!” said Orlando Williams of Green Bay.

Police say they didn't force any smokers to leave Sunday’s game, although they did give several warnings.

The no smoking policy also applies to smokeless and electronic cigarettes. While smokers were given warnings at this game, violators can face fines of up to $250.