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Pa. Senate Votes Down Smoking Ban
June 5, 2008

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News Summary

A bill that would have banned smoking from most indoor public places in Pennsylvania was defeated 31-19 in the state Senate, the Pittsburgh Business Times reported June 4.

The legislation previously passed the state House on a 163-38 tally.

Some lawmakers objected to the bill because it would have prevented counties from passing their own indoor-smoking laws but allowed an existing law in Philadelphia to remain in place.

"It makes no sense that Philadelphia's ordinance would keep in effect, and not Allegheny County," said State Sen. Wayne Fontana. "The bill could have been stronger. I supported (SB 246) originally, and was hoping it would come out stronger (from a Senate committee), but it came out weaker. It has holes in it."

The full Senate is expected to consider the measure again next week.

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