For the first time since illinois' smoking ban went into effect, a bill to allow smoking in certain establishments is on it's way to the house floor. House bill 1310 gives local governments the power to grant individual smoking licenses, much like licenses for liquor.
To be eligible, a bar would have to make less than 10 percent of its revenue through food sales, disclose to all employees that smoking would be allowed, have a valid liquor license, install an approved ventilation system and if a license is granted, the business must display signs notifying the public that smoking is allowed. Supporters say allowing smoking would help bring back business they've lost.
Steve Meersma, owner of the Bon-Air tavern in Moline says he's seeing fewer customers and less revenue since the smoking ban took effect two years ago.
"Definitely took a hit. Some customers just decided to stay home," Meersma said. The Illinois smoking license proposal is raising hopes that Meersma can get those customers back.
Opponents to the bill say the smoking ban protects non-smokers from second-hand smoke. But Meersma says it's what his customers want and allowing smoking would help fill his bar's empty seats. If the bill passes the House, the Senate and is signed by Governor Pat Quinn, then it's still up to each city's liquor commissioner to decide whether or not to grant any smoking licenses.
At least one Illinois State Representative in our district is in support of the bill. Rich Morthland says the issue of smoking should be up to each business to decide.
"I think this is something the states probably shouldn't have taken away. This is a legal activity engaged in by adults and these businesses that cater to adults should be able to practice it, especially, we don't want to have disparities across state lines," Morthland said.
We also spoke with Illinois State Representative Pat Verschoore who says he needs more information before making a decision.
As for smoking in Iowa, there's a new push to ban it in casinos. The Iowa Tobacco Prevention Alliance says a poll shows 63 percent are in favor of extending the smoking ban to include casinos.
A casino lobbyist says casinos oppose the ban because businesses should have the right to decide what goes on in their establishments.
