Lawmakers Begin Smoking Ban Debate

Publication Date: 2005-04-08

• Author:AP
• Publication:KETV 7, The Omaha Channel

Lawmakers began debate Thursday on whether the state or cities should take control of the smoking ban issue.

A bill (LB480) by Sen. Nancy Thompson of Papillion -- a long-time crusader against tobacco -- would eliminate smoking in all restaurants and bars that serve food.

The Nebraska Clean Indoor Air Act, in effect since 1980, allows businesses to choose whether to allow smoking, ban it or allow it in designated areas.

But Sen. Pat Bourne of Omaha offered an amendment that would preclude cities from enacting smoking bans that are tougher than existing state law.