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A statewide smoking ban was approved Tuesday by the Iowa House Commerce Committee. The bill, managed by Rep. Tyler Olson of Cedar Rapids, was approved with two additional exemptions -- casinos and federally chartered veterans organization that are closed to the public.

"Secondhand smoke contains 60 chemicals that cause cancer, asthma and other respiratory diseases," said Olson, a Democrat. "There is no risk-free secondhand smoke exposure for Iowans or workers. This creation of smoke-free places will protect Iowans in 99 percent of public places and workplaces, including bars and restaurants."

The bill, House Study Bill 537, creates smoke-free areas in public places such as workplaces, outdoor sports arenas, stadiums, bars and restaurants, public transit stations and within 50 feet of school grounds. Private residences are not required to be smoke-free.

"Food service workers have a 50 percent greater chance of dying from lung cancer than the general population," said Rep. Janet Petersen, D-Des Moines and chairwoman of the House Commerce Committee. "This is about protecting the health of Iowans visiting public places and workers who often don't have a choice where to work."

The bill was approved on a bi-partisan 16 to 6 vote and now goes to the House floor for consideration.