Court won't block debate on smoking bill

Publication Date: 2009-04-13

• Author:AP
• Publication:Las Vegas Now

The Nevada Supreme Court refused Monday to block legislative debate on a bill that would ease terms of a voter-approved measure that banned smoking in many bars and other public places.

The high court said its intervention isn't warranted because "no amendment to the current statute has occurred." Justices added that until the Legislature actually approves SB372, any action it takes in the case would be premature.

The bill was approved last week by the Senate Judiciary Committee but still must win full Senate approval and then move to the Assembly for final legislative action.

SB372 softens the 2006 Nevada Clean Indoor Air Act to allow smoking in bars that serve food as long as minors are restricted from entry. Also, businesses could wall off separately ventilated smoking rooms.