Another step forward for a statewide smoking ban

The statewide smoking ban proposals picked up the endorsement of the state restaurant association.

On Monday, the Texas Restaurant Association voted to support the measure - one they say would "level the playing field" for establishments across Texas.

"With 28 Texas cities and 24 states now smoke-free, it's just a win-win for that industry," said state Rep. Myra Crownover, the Denton Republican carrying the House bill to ban smoking in all the state's public places.

"What people forget is that for every one person who wants to smoke at a restaurant or bar, there are six or seven people who don't go to that establishment because they allow it."

One group unconvinced? Civil libertarians - who say it's inappropriate for the government to intrude on private property or take away personal freedoms.

They're joined by the tobacco lobby, which has contributed more than $112,000 to the campaigns of Texas lawmakers in the last two years, according to Dallas Morning News research.

"A restaurant, a bar, is private property, and you the customer have the choice of whether you go in or you don't," said Patrick Dixon, chairman of the Texas Libertarian Party. If you're a nonsmoker, "there are other places that will cater to you."

All due respect here, but if you've got to go to the chair of the Texas Libertarian Party for an anti quote, the pro position is probably in pretty good shape.

The proposed state ban, which is being championed by cyclist and cancer survivor Lance Armstrong, would outlaw smoking in bars, restaurants and all indoor public places across Texas, including offices, convention centers and bus stations. It would also ban smoking in the bleachers of outdoor sporting or music events, and anywhere within 15 feet of a doorway to a public building.

A statewide smoking ban, which failed in the 2007 legislative session, would supersede less-stringent laws in Texas cities. Smoking would still be permitted in specially marked hotel rooms, private rooms at nursing homes and outdoor patios connected to restaurants or bars.

Depending on circumstances, the patio allowance is either a deal-maker or a deal-breaker for bar and restaurant owners. Some establishments say it's the only way they'll be able to retain their smoking customers.

I've noted Armstrong's involvement before. I don't really have an opinion on the patio allowance provision. It's fine by me if there is one, but it won't break my heart if there isn't.

Gov. Rick Perry said that while he fully understands the health concerns of cigarette smoke, he likes the idea of local control and wants to find a way to walk the line that protects individual rights.

So there's still the chance of a veto, or a back-alley bill-killing, if the Governor gets a wild hair about it. But overall, the odds of this happening look good.

Posted by Charles Kuffner on February 17, 2009 to That's our Lege