Debate on smoking ban renewed in House

Publication Date: 2007-03-14

• Author:KRISTEN MACK
• Publication:Houston Chronicle

A House committee public hearing on a statewide smoking ban was a virtual replay of arguments made on the local level as cities throughout the state have considered making restaurants and bars smoke-free.

"This is not about whether Texans should smoke, that is an individual decision. We are working to protect employees in the state of Texas," said Rep. Myra Crownover, R-Denton, who is sponsoring the bill. "It has been debated, cussed and discussed. But it's a worldwide movement that is catching on."

While the Texas Restaurant Association supports the ban, several small business and pro-business groups are opposing it.