Miss. statewide smoking ban proposal creates mixed reactions | News

(WMC-TV) - Leaders said it's about health and taxpayer dollars, and a ban may help in both areas.

Olive Branch is in its second year as a smoke free city at places like restaurants, and a smoking ban statewide could be next.

Before Coleman Alford could light his cigarette away from the gas pumps, he said he feels a smoke-free Mississippi is a violation of his rights.

But state health officials are urging lawmakers to consider a bill to ban smoking in public places.

Mississippi Medical Association President Dr. Steve Demetroupolous said it may save tax payers some coughing and money.

"Decreased heart attacks, strokes, and lung disease we'll start seeing immediate savings in the healthcare costs of Mississippi," he said.

William Davis smokes and said he'd be okay with a switch.

"I think we could overcome smoking in public places, and overall I think it would be pretty good," said Davis.

Health leaders hope more people will think like Davis as they try to garner support to make Mississippi a smoke-free state.

The state medical association president said they've been meeting with leaders in the senate to discuss drafting a bill.

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