Michigan Senate OKs ban on smoking in bars, restaurants

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - The Michigan Senate has voted to prohibit smoking in all bars, restaurants and workplaces.

The 25-12 vote Thursday came after a Democratic senator asked to discharge smoking-ban legislation from a committee where bills traditionally have gone to die.

Republicans who control the chamber allowed the request.

The bill passed the Democratic-led House in December. But it had been opposed by Senate leaders, who said it would put unnecessary government restrictions on private establishments.

Health groups say secondhand smoke is harmful to workers and patrons in bars and restaurants.

Unlike the House version, the Senate version makes no special exceptions for casinos, bingo halls and other buildings.