House lawmakers put statewide smoking ban on hold

A bill that would ban smoking in most public places in Indiana is in danger of failing in the Indiana House.

The
bill by Democratic Rep. Charlie Brown of Gary would ban smoking in public places statewide except casinos and pari-mutuel
horse racing venues.

But the House voted Monday to add exemptions for bars, taverns and tobacco shops. That prompted
Brown to withdraw the bill for further consideration, at least for now. He says House members who want more exemptions are
trying to kill his bill.

Brown says he’s not sure whether he will push for the amended version of the bill or simply
let it die.