From the Detroit News:
Lawmakers reopened the debate over smoke-free workplaces Wednesday, launching hearings on an issue that has gridlocked the Legislature for years.
Owners of smaller bars and restaurants say a proposed statewide ban on workplace smoking could cost 7,500 hospitality jobs and drive them out of business.
Proponents say the ban is necessary to protect workers and customers from second-hand smoke, which they say claims 3,000 Michigan lives every year.
The hearing kicked off what could become another prolonged battle over the issue. There appears to be no compromise on a smoking prohibition, which failed to pass last year because lawmakers couldn’t resolve differences over House and Senate versions.
“The public is incredulous we haven’t enacted smoke-free workplace legislation,” said Rep. Joan Bauer, D-Lansing, sponsor of one of six smoking-ban bills in the Legislature. There is no target date for voting on any of the bills.
Bauer said 34 states have smoke-free workplace laws, and added that polls show 80 percent of Michigan voters favor a ban.
Carrie Klein, an assistant prosecutor from Portage, said her sister Pam died from cancer caused by second-hand smoke she breathed while working as a reporter conducting interviews in smoky places.
“Government has many duties, but surely the most important must be to protect,” she said.
Lance Binoniemi, executive director of the Michigan Licensed Beverage Association, said at least 750 bars and restaurants compete with Indian casinos that wouldn’t be affected by a smoking ban.
Rick Swindlehurst, owner of three Mount Pleasant food-and-drink establishments, said he would lose 20 percent of his customers to the nearby Soaring Eagle Casino.
“I’m a nonsmoker. I detest smoke, but I still have to stay in business,” he said.
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