Tobacco Bill Dies

Publication Date: 2008-01-31

• Author:AP
• Publication:KSFY Television (Sioux Falls, SD)

A bill to let South Dakota cities and counties adopt their own smoking and tobacco regulations has died in the House State Affairs Committee on a 9-4 vote. A state law passed several years ago gives that authority to state government, but anti-tobacco lobbyists say local officials should be able to set their own rules for tobacco use.

HB1237 would have provided that authority. State Rep. Joni Cutler of Sioux Falls said Thursday the bill was a good chance for lawmakers who say they believe in local control to practice what they preach. Opponents said if local communities banned smoking in bars, video lottery revenue would take a significant hit.

Anti-tobacco forces have said say they would mount a petition drive to get the issue on the ballot if the legislative attempt failed.