The city of Southlake is holding a public hearing Tuesday night on a proposed smoking ban.

The new rules would restrict smoking to private homes and designated hotel rooms and could be some of the toughest in North Texas.

Violators to the ordinance could be fined $2,000.

Anyone wishing to speak on the proposed smoking ordinance is invited to attend the meeting. The hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. at the council meeting chambers in Southlake Town Center at 1400 Main Street.

Officials will hold the second vote on the proposed ordinance after the hearing.

Last fall, Houston residents expressed overwhelming support for the expansion of a local smoke-free ordinance. Now Smoke-Free Texas is trying to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure statewide.

The Houston Chronicle has endorsed these efforts.

- Graci Garces, Grassroots Director
Smoke Free Texas

The Senate Committee on Health and Human Services heard strong testimony in favor of SB368, including that of surprise star witness: Lieutenant Governor David Dewhurst.

Lieutenant Governor Dewhurst endorsed SB368 and urged Chairwoman Jane Nelson and committee members to do the same: "It'll save lives, it'll save money, it'll make for a healthier Texas."

Lieutenant Governor Dewhurst's support is highlighted in the following Austin American Statesman article: Download file.

- Graci Garces, Grassroots Director
Smoke Free Texas