Ohio bill would ease restrictions on indoor smoking at private clubs

Ohio lawmakers will consider adding a new exception to the state’s indoor smoking ban in a proposal that would allow smoking at more private clubs.

The idea would allow smoking in cigar clubs and other private organizations even if the club is adjacent to other buildings, such as within a strip mall.

Representatives with the American Lung Association in Ohio, American Heart Association and American Cancer Society are against the idea.

Ohio Senate Minority Leader Joe Schiavoni, D-Boardman, and Sen. Bill Seitz, R-Cincinnati, are sponsoring the legislation that was introduced this past week.

“I think it would be good for economic development, not only in the Mahoning Valley but in other urban areas where there would be a desire for this,” Schiavoni said. Read More