State lawmakers unlikely to toughen smoking ban

It appears health advocates have little chance of seeing Indiana's smoking ban extended to include bars.

That exemption was included in the statewide ban that legislators approved last year and its chief sponsors have filed a bill that would take it away.

Rep. Charlie Brown of Gary says he filed the measure to keep discussion going on what he believes is the need for a broader smoking ban, but he doesn't expect it will advance this session.

The law that took effect in July bans smoking in most indoor workplaces, including all restaurants. Many cities and counties have tougher bans that include bars.

House Public Policy Committee chairman Bill Davis of Portland says he believes legislators should wait a couple years before considering whether to toughen up the statewide restrictions.