Tagged: indoor smoking

At only 17 cents per cigarette pack, Missouri has the lowest tax for tobacco in the U.S. In 2012, Missouri voters said no to increasing that tax to 90 cents per pack. Missouri is also one of 14 states that don't have some sort of a statewide ban on smoking in non-hospitality workplaces, and/or restaurants, and/or bars. All of this adds up to the Show-Me State's top spot as the freest state in the nation when it comes to tobacco. 

But since 2007, about two dozen municipalities in Missouri have enacted a comprehensive smoking ban in all workplaces, including restaurants and bars. This Monday, rural Washington, Mo., joins that list. The City Council voted to pass the ordinance to ban smoking back in January. 

Missouri House Republicans are considering a policy to let lawmakers continue smoking in their offices while encouraging them to be "conscientious" and "respectful."

Smoking is barred in the House chamber and public galleries. House rules require the Republican and Democratic caucuses to establish smoking policies for legislators' private offices.

House Democrats have decided to bar smoking in their own private offices.