DURHAM, N.C. (AP) - In a city once famous for its tobacco industry, officials are looking to further clamp down on public smoking.
The Durham County Health Department has asked the city council and county board of commissioners to approve new restrictions on smoking at public athletic fields and playgrounds, bus stops and even some public sidewalks.
The city first passed an anti-smoking ordinance in 1993 and has been tightening restrictions ever since.
Health Director Gayle Harris says anti-smoking regulations have contributed to huge drops around the country in chronic illnesses linked to tobacco use.
Members of the city council and county commission say they want to hear more about the proposals before deciding.
(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
