Senate Takes Up Smoking Tuesday

(Indianapolis, Ind.) - It could be a long day in the Indiana Senate on Tuesday as lawmakers take up a proposal to make Indiana a smoke-free state.

 

House Bill 1149 passed the House last month and last week earned the approval of the Senate Committee on Public Policy.

 

The Senate has killed smoking ban bills each of the past five years. However, legislative experts say the smoke-free law has as good a chance as any to pass the Senate this year.

 

A number of amendments are expected to be proposed when the bill is considered Tuesday. At least 20 amendments have already been filed by Senators.

 

In its current form, the bill includes exemptions for casinos, cigar bars, and veterans clubs. Bars would also be given 18 months before having to comply with the law, but other establishments would have to remove their ash trays by July 1, 2012.

 

Governor Mitch Daniels has indicated he would sign any anti-smoking legislation into law if it reaches his desk.

 

LINKS:

 

Smoking Ban Passes Senate Committee

 

House Passes Smoking Ban, 62-34

 

Bars Given 18 Months In Latest Smoking Ban Bill

 

Poll: 70% of Hoosiers Want Smoke Free Law

More from Local News

Events

Intersection Improvement Work Planned in Greendale

Work at the intersection of U.S. 50, State Road 1 (Belleview Drive), and the I-275 on-ramp.

Skyline Chili Named #1 Regional Fast Food Restaurant

Whenever you are feeling good and hungry...

Indiana Unemployment Rate Improves in June

The state's jobless rate remains lower than the national rate.

Cincinnati Man Takes First Place at Trojan Trot 5K

The second of six SIRC races was held on Saturday in St. Leon.

DCF's 24th Annual Golf Scramble Fundraiser Set for August 4

The round will be played at Hidden Valley Golf Club.

Versailles Native Wins Lions Pride 5K

The next Southeastern Indiana Racing Circuit event is July 12 in St. Leon.

On Air

Wade Hayes On A Good Night 14:26
Jon Pardi Dirt on My Boots 14:23
Faith Hill This Kiss 14:20
George Birge It Won't Be Long 14:14