The Pennsylvania state senate has rejected, for the time being at least, a compromise bill that would have banned smoking in most workplaces and public spaces across the commonwealth.

The chamber voted 31-19 against the measure after Democratic senators complained that it does not allow Allegheny County and Scranton, which had approved local bans, to enforce stronger ordinances (see previous story). But a court struck down Allegheny County’s last year, and Scranton never enforced its own, fearing a similar fate.

The bill would have barred every county and municipality, with the exception of Philadelphia, from enacting its own smoking ban. It would let stand Philadelphia’s year-and-a-half-old ban, the only active local smoking ordinance in the state.  read more »

Casinos, private clubs and smaller bars and taverns appear to be winning their fights for exceptions from a bill to ban smoking from most indoor facilities in Pennsylvania.

Sources close to talks said all three groups might escape the statewide ban.

But smoking could be banished at restaurants, offices and other workplaces, and public facilities such as stadiums or government buildings.

These are the elements of legislation being developed by a panel of six lawmakers from the state House and Senate.

The committee postponed a meeting Wednesday, but the panel is expected to vote on legislation Monday. Sources said it could go back to the House and Senate next week for votes.  read more »