Tobacco.org

Michigan Senate OKs ban on smoking in bars, restaurants 

An anti-smoking bill that appeared to be going nowhere took a surprise turn Thursday in the Senate when 25 lawmakers voted for a ban on smoking in Michigan's bars, restaurants and workplaces.

The bill returns to the House, which has been waiting since December for the Senate to act. The House could send the bill as early as next week to Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who backs the smoking prohibition in part because it could have a positive influence on youngsters. Studies have shown teenagers are less likely to take up smoking in communities with bans.

Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, who allowed the Senate to vote despite personally opposing the measure, called it a "blatant overreach" of government into private affairs.

Jump to full article »