Smoking Ban Passes Michigan House

The Michigan House of Representatives has again passed a smoking ban. This version will exempt casinos and tobacco shops.

However, there is no word yet on whether or not charity bingos may join that list. Last year's smoking ban legislation (which eventually expired before a compromise could be reached) did include nonprofit bingos amongst their exemptions.

From The Detroit News:

The debate about a possible workplace smoking ban in Michigan continues.

A state House committee on Wednesday approved a bill that would ban smoking at most workplaces including bars and restaurants. But casinos and tobacco shops would be exempt from the ban, similar to plans approved by the Democrat-led House in 2007 and 2008.

The Republican-led Senate has not taken up a smoking ban bill this year. The Senate approved a ban with no exceptions last year. A spokesman for Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop of Rochester said no deal has been reached on a compromise.

The Senate and House would have to agree on a version of the ban for it to become law.