Soon to be smoke-free: Kokomo prepares for smoking ban implementation in bars, private clubs

KOKOMO - After months, many would say years, of anticipation and preparation, Howard County will implement on July 1 the second part of its broad smoking ban to include bars, taverns and private clubs.

The ban serves as a point of contention among Kokomo bar owners, but also represents a major victory for local officials and smoke-free activists, many of whom believe it will boost community health without the negative economic impact feared by some.

On March 6, the Howard County Board of Commissioners and Kokomo Common Council passed, one after the other, measures enacting a scheduled county-wide smoking ban with few exceptions.

The legislation was put into effect April 1, except for bars, private clubs and the ordinance’s outdoor seating requirements, which were given until July 1 to come into compliance.

Read more: http://www.kokomotribune.com/news/local_news/soon-to-be-smoke-free-kokomo-prepares-for-smoking-ban/article_96dff88e-584d-11e7-8c72-d759b9332205.html