Statewide smoking ban headed to House committee again

Publication Date: 2008-02-27

• Author:AP
• Publication:Myrtle Beach Sun News, SC

A House panel has approved a bill banning smoking in restaurants statewide, despite opposition from smoke-free advocates.

The proposal from Representative Todd Rutherford would prohibit smoking in restaurants, bars, lounges and recreational facilities, but include exemptions for cigar bars and private clubs.

Subcommittee Chairman Murrell Smith says he admires the Columbia Democrat's tenacity. The measure came within several votes of passing in the House two years ago.

But Smith says he is certain the bill won't pass this year because everyone's waiting on the state Supreme Court ruling on whether cities and towns can impose the bans.