This is an embarrassing process we're imposing on the agency. He dropped the subpoena move after Dr. Grant Higginson, acting division administrator, appeared before the committee Wednesday and told lawmakers that the agency would supply whatever information was requested. But he said no county is required to advocate for ordinances to qualify for the money. In related business, a restaurant owners' group urged the panel to approve a bill to prohibit local governments from adopting anti-smoking ordinances that are more restrictive than state law. A major effect would be to snuff out ordinances in Corvallis, Eugene and some other cities that ban smoking in bars and taverns.
State law restricts smoking in restaurants but exempts areas serving alcohol.
Connie Hunt, operator of the Eastbank Saloon in Portland, said banning smoking in her bar could force patrons into the street to smoke, creating congestion and noise. Foes of the measure, HB3953, said local governments should be allowed to decide the issue and that bar workers need protection from second-hand smoke.