Beijing to Publicly Shame Smokers

Well, that's one way to get people to smoke less: Starting today in Beijing, it's illegal to smoke in restaurants, offices, or on public transportation ... and if you violate the law three times, your name will be listed on a government website. The law also raises the fine for violations from a "seldom-enforced" $1.60 to $32.25 for things like smoking near a school or a hospital. The new rules are being touted by health activists in China, where more than 300 million people smoke, Reuters reports. Another big change: Businesses, including restaurants, that don't manage to keep smokers off the premises can be fined as much as $1,600. (Read more smoking stories.)