Smoking BanIndianapolis, Ind. — As everyone is well aware of by now, the Indianapolis smoking ban goes into effect on March 1, 2006 for most restaurants and public places. Most bars and establishments that only serve those 18 and older are exempt from the ban.

But what most people aren’t aware of is that bingo halls are exempt as well.

City-County Council member Steve Tally (D) said, “After a few closed door discussions, it was clear that the exemption for bingo halls was vital to both the bingo halls and the proposal.”

“First, (the exemption) was vital to bingo halls because 75% of all bingo players are chain smokers. The bingo halls would take an enormous financial hit with the smokers sitting out numerous games to take smoke breaks.”

Tally concluded, “Secondly, a few City-County Council members are either avid bingo players or have family members who are. Without their votes the ban would never have passed.”

So while you can’t light up in most public places in Indianapolis after this evening, keep the bingo halls in mind if the bar scene isn’t your thing.