Another smoking ban will soon be considered South Bend Common Council — and the measure may actually pass this year.
Councilman Gavin Ferlic introduced the smoking ban Wednesday, March 9, according to the South Bend Tribune. The legislation would ban patrons smoking tobacco from all public places in South Bend, including bars, restaurants, private clubs and some casinos. E-cigarettes and vaping devices would also be banned.
Outdoor smoking areas restricted to patrons and employees 18 and older would be allowed.
“Ultimately it comes down to public health and protecting employees,” Ferlic told the Tribune. He proposed similar ordinances twice before, but they didn’t pass.
The state of Indiana banned smoking in public places in 2012, but some businesses like bars are exempt from the law.
Councilman Oliver Davis told the Tribune that he thinks the bill would harm businesses in South Bend, because smokers would patronize businesses outside of the city.
Read more about the debate over the proposal in the full story from the South Bend Tribune.