Anti-smoking activists want to extend their reach in Illinois

Cities around the state soon may be able to snuff out smoking in restaurants and taverns if they wish.

Rep. Karen Yarbrough, D-Maywood, said state law should give local governments the power to ban smoking in restaurants and bars in their cities and towns. The state House approved the measure on Wednesday.

Opponents argue that the decision should be up to individual restaurant and bar owners rather than local government.

Rep. Mike Boland, D-East Moline, voted against the measure. Certain establishments, such as taverns and bars, should be exempt from the bill, he said.

But supporters of the bill said all workers, whether in restaurants or bars, should be assured of smoke-free air.