Galveston smoking ban could be amended

GALVESTON, TX The city council on Thursday agreed to ask the city attorney to amend the ordinance to allow smoking in stores that sell tobacco and cigars. A final vote on the amendment could come Dec. 10.

The ordinance, as adopted July 23, forbids lighting up in bars, restaurants, private clubs and tobacco stores.

The proposed change would allow smoking in tobacco and cigar stories, but those businesses would be banned from selling alcohol or allowing drinking on the premises. Tobacco shops would have to install ventilation systems and be off limits to anyone younger than 18.