Officials in Indiana county repeal smoking ban

FRANKLIN, Ind. — Officials in a central Indiana county have repealed a local smoking ban less than a month before it was scheduled to go into effect.

The Johnson County commissioners voted unanimously this week to repeal the countywide ban, which had been slated to begin Jan. 5.

The ban would have prohibited smoking in all bars, restaurants, businesses, hotels and private clubs.

Commissioner Troy DeHart tells The Indianapolis Star that the ban faced little opposition when it was adopted Nov. 5.

But commissioners began to receive complaints afterward, prompting the second vote.

Franklin and Greenwood already have smoking bans.

County Commissioner Ron West tells WIBC officials may consider a less strict measure.

A new statewide law bans smoking inside public buildings and places of employment, but has exceptions for bars and casinos.