A statewide smoking ban bill has easily cleared the House Health and Welfare Committee. The key sponsor of the bill, Susan Westrom, is confident it will clear the full House.
The legislation seeks to prohibit smoking inside private businesses and public buildings all across the state. One of those testifying in support of the ban was newly elected Winchester Representative Ralph Alvarado. "As a conservative republican, I believe in limited government. But this critical public health and workplace safety issue has not been solved by the private sector and I'm a staunch supporter of private property rights, but the rights of business owners must be balanced with their patrons and employees rights to a safe environment," said Alvarado.
Louisville Representative Phil Moffett voted no, saying the matter should remain a local government decision. "Why are we not just pushing for the illegal use of tobacco, if it is that devastating? Why legislate our activities, why not try to get rid of the product?" asked Moffett.
The bill passed out of committee by an 11 to 4 vote. Bill Sponsor Lexington Representative Susan Westrom expressed confidence the measure would be called for a vote and pass the House. ?
