UPDATE: Ind. Senate panel weighs statewide smoking ban

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Posted: 3:49 PM Feb 22, 2012 UPDATE: Ind. Senate panel weighs statewide smoking ban Indianapolis Indiana senators are taking up work on a statewide smoking ban in the waning days of the 2012 session. Reporter: Associated Press Email Address: newscenter16@wndu.com

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Indiana senators are taking up work on a statewide smoking ban in the waning days of the 2012 session.

The Senate Policy Committee began work on the ban Wednesday, addressing the same issues about carve-outs and exemptions which have sunk the effort in past years.

The House-approved measure includes exemptions for casinos, tobacco stores, hookah bars and private clubs. It also includes an 18-month delay before the ban takes effect in bars.

Democratic Rep. Charlie Brown of Gary says he understands that he and other supporters of a ban will have to start small and work up to a more extensive ban. Another supporter, Republican Rep. Eric Turner of Cicero, says the casino carve-out and others are needed to secure enough votes for passage.

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