State smoking ban legislation proposed

State smoking ban legislation proposed

Health advocates are hoping this will be their year to get a statewide ban on smoking in all public places – including Mississippi’s smoky, cigarette-sanctuary casinos – through the Legislature.

Similar proposals have failed in the past, but many agree the cards appear more favorable for 2011 – thanks in part to the upcoming statewide election and a media campaign from the state Department of Health.

“The science is there, the facts are there and now we have the grass-roots efforts in place,” said Katherine Bryant, state government relations director for the American Heart Association. “It’s just a matter of soaking it all in.”

Clarion Ledger
1/20/10