Pennsylvania Mayor Vetoes Smoking Ban

With a response that will be championed by defenders of cigar rights, the mayor of Punxsutawney, Penn., a few hours northeast of Pittsburgh, vetoed a proposed ban on outdoor smoking. Mayor James Wehlre vetoed the bill last week citing it as a breach of civil liberties.

“But then when you talk to people, it’s always about the smell of their clothes,” said Wehrle to WJAC. “I think it may bother kids if they’re next to it for a period of time, but I think in open air, people can get out of the way.”

Despite the veto, it appears the fight is not over. The seven-person borough council will hold another vote on the ban in December, if five council members vote in favor of the ban, the veto will be overridden.

Punxsutawney is a small town of less than 6,000 according to recent census data. It is most famous for being home to Punxsutawney Phil, a groundhog who appears on groundhog day.

(Image via Punxsutawney Phil Facebook Page)