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A proposed statewide smoking ban now has so many exemptions that health advocates say it nearly loses its meaning. Yet those loopholes give the bill its best shot in years of actually passing the Republican-controlled General Assembly.
The Indiana House could vote as early as Monday on the proposal, which exempts casinos, bars, clubs and even nursing homes.
A statewide smoking ban has cleared the House several times but never gained traction in the Indiana Senate. But Indiana Senate President Pro Tem David Long of Fort Wayne says the bill will get a hearing this year, and the exemptions may help its chances.
Health advocates say a comprehensive ban without loopholes would protect all workers, but critics say the exemptions are needed so businesses don't lose money.
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