Find a Therapist

Indiana votes to ban smoking in public places

By Staff Writer

Smokers do not only negatively impact their health, but the health of those around them with the by-products of tobacco. In an effort to make public areas a safer environment, the Indiana House of Representatives recently voted to institute House Bill 1018. The legislation will prohibit smoking in public places.

Lawmakers voted 68-31 on the bill, but they expect to face a wave of opposition from the Senate. The legislation provides exemptions for a number of institutions, including casinos, bars, clubs and various nursing homes. Individuals felt that the elderly should have the right to smoke in designated areas of hospices.

Opponents of the bill believe that the new law may result in a loss of business for facilities, such as restaurants. The bill also specifies that bars that only admit individuals over the age of 21 may be exempt from the ban. Bar owners fear that this may encourage patrons to take their business elsewhere, such as to a casino, where there are no limitations.

Smoking is responsible for nearly one in five deaths in the U.S. every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Drug rehab centers can help individuals who are addicted to nicotine.