One of the many amendments that was successfully added to SB1811 Friday night was by Rep. Myra Crownover to finally implement a statewide smoking ban.
The close vote, 73-66, came during debate on the enormous budget-related bill, Senate Bill 1811.
The amendment by Rep. Myra Crownover, R-Denton, was one of a few opposed by the measure’s House sponsor, Rep. Jim Pitts, R-Waxahachie, that actually passed.
The amendment would ban smoking in public places, which would include bars and restaurants because they are places where anyone would be welcome.
You can see Rep. Crownover’s amendment here, and the amendments that were successfully tacked on to her amendment here and here. This still has to make it through the Senate, but it’s as far as any previous attempt has ever gone. The Trib has more.