RICHMOND -- The majority leader in the House of Delegates is joining a growing legislative effort to curb smoking in Virginia restaurants, but is stopping short of forcing businesses to ban the unhealthy practice.

Del. Morgan Griffith, R-Salem, filed legislation on Tuesday that would prohibit restaurants from allowing smoking unless they post signs at all public entrances indicating that smoking is permitted. Griffith's legislation would make smoke-free dining the default policy for the state's restaurants.

Griffith's bill is less restrictive than legislation sponsored by Sen. Brandon Bell, R-Roanoke County, who wants to ban smoking in most indoor public places. The Senate passed Bell's bill last year, but a House subcommittee defeated it on a unanimous vote.

Griffith said he believes his bill stands a stronger chance of passage than Bell's proposal and could create market pressure on many restaurants to ban smoking. The measure also would make it easy for customers to determine which restaurants offer smoke-free environments, Griffith said.

Griffith, who said he is allergic to tobacco smoke, acknowledged that he has received considerable input from constituents on the issue since Bell's bill failed last year.

"I believe this will add just enough pressure that a significant number of restaurants will become smoke free," Griffith said. "This is a realistic approach to a serious concern."

Under Griffith's proposal, restaurants that choose to allow smoking would post conspicuous "smoking permitted" signs at all public entrances. Smoking would be prohibited at restaurants without such signs and violators would face fines of $250 for a first offense and $500 for a second offense. A third offense by a proprietor or customer could merit misdemeanor charges.

Bell said Griffith's bill stops short of ensuring that workers are protected from the hazards of second-hand smoke, a standard he considers essential. But Bell said Griffith's legislation could further momentum for a cause that has gained considerable steam in the past year.

"It's obvious that Morgan is hearing from some people who want some action on this issue," said Bell, whose Senate district overlaps Griffith's House district.

Terry Hargrove, the director of community relations for the American Lung Association of Virginia, said Griffith "is recognizing the need for smoke-free environments."

But, Hargrove said, "We feel that legislation is needed so that workers are guaranteed a smoke-free environment."

Griffith said he objects to a statewide ban that would affect all workplaces, including small businesses. He said his bill would encourage more smoke-free restaurants without infringing on individual rights.

"In talking with citizens, I find most want more choices in smoke-free restaurants, but they don't want to prevent all businesses from serving those who use tobacco," he said.

Two veteran House Republicans are sponsoring bills similar to Bell's, but Griffith predicted the measures will have a tough time getting broad support in the House.

Another delegate, Republican John Cosgrove of Chesapeake, is sponsoring a bill that would ban smoking in restaurants built after July 1, 2008, unless the restaurants have separate ventilation systems to serve smoking and non-smoking areas.

Bell said the filing of House bills gives his cause a stronger chance than it had last year, when he had difficulty finding allies in the chamber.

"It's not just me taking a bill in after crossover," Bell said.