Hopkinsville Smoking Ban Passes First Reading

Officials in Hopkinsville have conducted a preliminary vote to implement a smoking ban in that city.

The Kentucky New Era reports the Hopkinsville City Council passed a first reading of the measure during a meeting Tuesday night.  The mayor cast the deciding vote. Approval of a second reading must take place prior to the law taking effect.
 
Mayor Don Kemp said the measure is "progress". He also said that it follows other cities in western Kentucky such as Paducah, Owensboro and Henderson that have passed smoking bans.
 
Opponents of the ban said they want business owners to have the right to decide whether or not to allow smoking in their establishments.