(Frankfort, Ky.) - A bill banning smoking in all public places could soon be a reality in Kentucky.
The measure passed the House Health and Welfare Committee by a 10-2 vote on Tuesday. After clearing its first legislative hurdle, the bill now moves on to the full House.
The proposal would ban smoking in all indoor workplaces. In its current version, the ban would also apply to private residences which house either child or adult care services.
Backers of the bill think there may not be enough votes in the Senate to pass it.
Rep. Susan Westrom, D-Lexington, said she isn't sure when, or if, the measure will be presented for a floor vote in the House.
"If we don't have the votes to get it out the Senate, I don't think we'll vote on it in the House," said Rep. Susan Westrom (D-Lexington).
This isn’t the first time a smoking ban has been proposed in Kentucky, however, past proposals have not gained traction among legislators in a state in which tobacco is still a major crop.
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Ky. Lawmakers Considering Smoking Ban