Hammond Expands Smoking Ban To Bars And Bingo Halls

The Advocate reports the law, which goes into effect in 90 days, adds those hospitality businesses previously excluded under state law to the list of employers that must provide smoke-free work environments.

Councilman Lemar Marshall, who sponsored the ordinance, said he sees it as a workforce initiative and public health issue.

Councilman Jason Hood, the lone no vote among the five-member council, said after Tuesday's meeting that he doesn't believe it's the government's place to tell business owners how to run their business. Hood said any bar owner concerned about providing a smoke-free environment for employees or patrons could have done so voluntarily.

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Information from: The Advocate, http://theadvocate.com