Rep. Hugh Holliman has received an award from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network for his work in helping to pass a ban on smoking in bars and restaurants.

The law followed years of unsuccessful attempts at a smoking ban for Holliman, a Lexington Democrat and lung cancer survivor. 

The annual award is given to lawmakers who demonstrate solid, consistent leadership in the area of cancer-related public policy advocacy. The network is a nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy organization that encourages government officials and candidates to support laws and policies that would make cancer a top national priority. 

"Rep. Holliman’s leadership was the key factor in securing a smoke-free law for North Carolina," said Ashley G. Bell, North Carolina Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society. "He made this lifesaving legislation a personal priority and ensured its passage and ultimate signing by the governor."

The law, which requires all restaurants and bars to be smoke-free, goes into effect on January 2, 2010. With this measure, North Carolina is the first major tobacco growing state to have a 100 percent statewide smoke-free restaurant and bar law.