Casper Smoking Ban Advances

It appears a smoking ban in Casper will become law.  At its meeting Tuesday night, the Casper City Council passed the second reading off the proposed smoking ban.  It only needs one more reading to pass.  The ban would prohibit smoking in restaurants and bars within the city limits.

More than two dozen people spoke out on the proposed ban Tuesday night.  Supporters say the move will be good for the city, while opponents say the measure will hurt local businesses.

A number of opponents said they plan to fight the ban by getting it put in front of voters through a referendum.

The council has also amended the proposal to include banning smoking inside private clubs.  They had been exempted from the original draft, but some council members felt they should be included, since many hold functions that are open to the public.

A final vote on the matter could come next month