The south Texas city of Harlingen is inching closer towards a smoking ban. Under the proposed ordinance, smoking would be banned indoors in all places other than private clubs, fraternal organizations and retail tobacco shops. Smoking would be permitted at outdoor seating, at golf courses and outside at the Valley Race Park.
Smoking at bars, restaurants and all other businesses would become illegal. In addition, outdoor sports arenas, parks, public transportation areas and flea markets would also become smoke-free areas. Smoking would also be banned within 10 feet of entrances, windows and ventilation areas of all businesses.
Despite a split City Commission, the modified proposal moved forward yesterday. It will face a second reading and then become law.
Harlingen is located in Cameron County, in what is essentially the most southeastern part of Texas. It is located roughly 10 miles from the U.S. border with Mexico. It has a population around 65,000.