PITTSBURGH -- Approximately 3,000 bar and restaurant owners have filed for exemption from the state’s new smoking ban.

A representative for the Pennsylvania Department of Health said it will take 45 days to process applications for exemption.

Smoking is allowed to continue in those places that filed for exemption before Sept. 10, according to the department representative.

Those places that filed after Sept. 10 must comply with the law until the applications have been reviewed.

Many business owners are hoping that the large number of applicants for exemption will make a strong case for the state department of health to consider.

“The majority of our patrons smoke,” said Jan Foci, a South Hills bar/restaurant owner. “I think it’s an infringement on peoples’ rights.”