Indiana Senate panel sets vote on smoking ban

The chairman of an Indiana Senate committee has scheduled a vote on whether a proposed statewide smoking ban will stay alive in the Legislature.

The Senate Public Policy Committee is expected to vote on the bill Wednesday. Amendments won't be allowed to the bill that currently includes exemptions for casinos, bars, fraternal clubs, smoke shops and nursing homes.

Committee Chairman Ron Alting of Lafayette has warned the ban's supporters that they could kill the bill by lobbying for a comprehensive ban that doesn't include wide exemptions.

The bill cleared the House by a 68-31 vote in January, and Republican Gov. Mitch Daniels has said he would sign it. American Cancer Society volunteers are expected to visit the Statehouse on Tuesday to urge legislators to adopt a tougher ban.