INDIANAPOLIS (AP) — A proposed statewide smoking ban for Indiana has been defeated in a state Senate committee, with several members saying they opposed the many exemptions it included.

The Senate Public Policy Committee voted 8-1 Wednesday against the bill that had exemptions for casinos, bars, fraternal clubs, smoke shops and nursing homes.

American Cancer Society opposed the proposed ban on the grounds that it would be one of the weakest in the country.

Committee Chairman Ron Alting of Lafayette didn't allow senators to consider removing any of the exemptions that were in the bill approved by the House. Alting said those exemptions were needed to win enough votes to pass.

Longtime ban supporter Rep. Charlie Brown of Gary said he was disappointed that smoking opponents pushed to have the bill defeated.

Posted 4/7/2011