Smoking ban gets mixed reviews

MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (AP) - Indiana's statewide smoking ban is getting mixed reviews from business owners and customers six months after taking effect.

The law bars smoking in most public places and requires that people stand 8 feet from an entrance before lighting up. Gambling facilities, cigar and hookah bars, tobacco retail stores and other establishments are exempt.

Restaurants with bars can permit smoking within the establishment if they choose to allow only customers age 21 or older.

While some customers are delighted with eateries that went smoke-free, some business owners aren't happy.

Phil Holub co-owns Sheffield's Restaurant and Sports Bar in Merrillville. He tells the Post-Tribune the ban has become a headache. He and his business partner decided to continue offering smoking at their Merrillville establishment, but made their Dyer location smoke-free.