The Iowa Senate on Thursday rejected proposed revisions to a statewide smoking ban approved by state representatives earlier this week, which means the final version of the legislation will be decided by a committee of state senators and representatives.On Wednesday, the Iowa House passed a revised bill that granted exemptions for taverns, casinos and some restaurants during hours when admittance is limited to customers who are 21 or older. That version of the bill was seen as a setback by proponents of a bill passed in the Senate earlier this month that would have outlawed smoking in 99 percent of Iowa’s public places.

Democrat leaders in both chambers predicted in a meeting with reporters on Thursday that the compromise legislation likely will include bars and restaurants in the smoking ban, but were uncertain whether casinos will be included. Once a compromise is reached, lawmakers in both chambers will be asked to approve the final version of the bill, but under legislative rules, no additional amendments can be made.

State Sen. Staci Appel, D-Ackworth, floor manager for the bill, urged the Senate to reject the House version during brief remarks prior to the vote. The bill failed 27-23 and mostly followed party lines with a majority of Democrats voting to kill the revised legislation.

“The amendment goes against the intent of the bill. It does nothing to protect the health of those who patronize or work in these establishments,” Appel said.

Earlier in the day, House Minority Leader Christopher Rants, R-Sioux City, an opponent of the smoking ban, expressed frustration that so much time has been spent this session debating the anti-tobacco legislation.

“This is a session that seems to be revolving around only one issue: smoking,” Rants said during his weekly press conference with reporters.
Rants said lawmakers continue to drag their feet in regards to working on the final budget.