Local News

Irving Considers Tighter Public Smoking Restrictions Tonight

February 19, 2015 / 6:15 PM CST / CBS Texas

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IRVING (CBSDFW.COM) - A tough, new smoking ban in Irving is up for debate at Thursday night's council meeting.

Lighting up is already banned in most public places, including restaurants, though there are exemptions for some businesses that have separate air handling systems for smokers and non-smokers. A new ordinance would tighten restrictions, except for tobacco businesses and private homes, clubs, or golf courses.

Some restaurants might be grandfathered if they have dual-air systems. But not everyone thinks that works. Like Mike Jarecki, who doesn't smoke now but did for 28 years. "The smoke hits you right when you come in and I can't do it anymore," says Jarecki. "So I kind of believe what Irving's doing is right."

Across town, Dave Caporaletti thinks it's too much. "I don't agree with it. I think they are picking on a minority of places for people to go."

Caporaletti's tobacco store won't be directly effected. Tobacco stores are exempt, as are private homes, clubs and golf courses. Bingo parlors and restaurants like Champps with existing separate air systems are grandfathered, unless they change ownership.

But Caporaletti thinks with 600 places to eat in Irving, the proposal is overkill. "There are only eight restaurants in the Irving area that you can smoke at while you eat and I feel they're picking on a minority of people that's just unfair to such a small population."