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Commission votes 4‑1 to align Salina’s indoor smoking rules with state law
Summary
The commission approved an ordinance to bring the city’s indoor smoking code into conformity with the Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act, adopting limited state exceptions (for example, tobacco specialty retailers that meet a 65% revenue threshold); the change drew limited debate and passed 4‑1.
The Salina City Commission on July 13 adopted an ordinance amending city code sections related to indoor smoking to align the local code with the Kansas Indoor Clean Air Act. City staff explained the city’s 2009 ordinance was originally more restrictive than the later state law; the proposed amendments would allow the narrow exceptions the state permits, such as tobacco specialty retailers and private clubs that meet statutory revenue thresholds.
“Because we adopted our city ordinance before the state, the state subsequently allowed a few exceptions that our local ordinance does not,” a staff presenter explained. The presenter recommended passage to avoid inconsistencies in enforcement while preserving the city’s ability to remain more restrictive if the commission so chooses.
Commissioners discussed questions about how the carve‑outs intersect with places of employment and outdoor restaurant areas. The ordinance clarifies that outdoor restaurant areas remain subject to the city’s definitions of enclosed vs. unenclosed spaces and that parks and park areas are treated consistently.
The ordinance passed on roll call, 4‑1. One commissioner voted against the amendment.
