Talks start on Indiana smoking ban compromise

A leading supporter of Indiana’s statewide smoking ban bill says it shouldn’t prevent cities and counties from adopting tougher restrictions.

Republican Rep. Eric Turner of Cicero said Monday that he didn’t support a provision added to the bill last week by the Senate that would block any new local smoking ordinances. That is one of several changes senators made in watering down the statewide ban.

Senators also added exemptions for bars, charity gambling operations, veterans’ homes and nursing homes. The House earlier approved a ban exempting casinos and allowing an 18-month exemption for bars.

House and Senate negotiators are working on reaching a compromise agreement by the end of this week, when legislative leaders are planning to adjourn this year’s session.