A proposed statewide smoking ban easily passed out of the House and Welfare Committee Thursday with a vote of 11-to-4. The matter now moves on to the full House.
Lexington Representative Susan Westrom says she's pleased to hear lawmakers who once opposed the ban, now supporting it.
"It's music to my ears. We found that in our interim health and welfare committee meeting in December. It was just like the tide had turned over a short period of time," Westrom said.
"It was a miracle to me, but it was the tipping point."
Louisville Representative Phil Moffett voted no, saying the matter should remain a local government decision.
"Why are we not just pushing for the illegal use of tobacco, if it is that devastating? Why legislate our activities, why not try to get rid of the product?" Moffett said.
Westrom expects a vote on the floor next week and is confident the bill will pass the Democratic House. She admits clearing the Republican controlled Senate will bring its own challenges.
