MS Pushing Statewide Smoking Ban
Mississippi health officials are hoping the second time is the charm, seeking again to pass a state law that would make public places and workplaces smoke-free.
Mike Cashion, executive director for the Mississippi Hospitality & Restaurant Association, tells The Clarion-Ledger their organization continues to oppose such a smoking ban.
If the state does pass the smoke-free bill, it would join 27 other states. Last year’s bill passed the Mississippi Senate, but got no further.
Health Department officials say they’re optimistic lawmakers will pass the legislation in 2012. Backers include the Mississippi State Medical Association and the Mississippi affiliates of the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the American Lung Association.
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