Marissa Wagner

San Marcos bar patrons may soon have a smoke-free atmosphere. Marissa Wagner has more in this Bobcat update.

The San Marcos City council is considering legislation that would enforce a city-wide smoking ban for all restaurants and bars.
The co-owner of Texas Music Theater, Greg Grayson, says he's indifferent to the proposed law as long as all businesses are treated the same.
"As long as it's even across the board. You know I think that, you know, everybody should have a choice, but if the city wants to do that, I don't have a problem with it."
 The Texas Legislature considered a statewide ban on smoking earlier this year. The bill passed the Texas House but didn't get through the Senate.
ME: more than 40 communities statewide have passed 100 percent smoke-free laws.
Those in favor of the bill say that the ban will save Texas millions of dollars a year in smoking-related healthcare issues, whereas those opposed believe it to be an invasion of people's personal rights.
Musician Johnathan Siem says he understands both sides of the issue.
"I think it's a healthier decision, I guess, for everybody, in the long run because of, I guess, for everybody in the long run because of, I guess, second-hand smoke and all that, but it does…it's not very convenient for smokers. It's a choice that they have and I don't think it should be that big of a deal."
The San Marcos City Council held two public forums this summer and has created an online discussion board for residents to voice their opinions on the matter.
For Bobcat Update, I'm Marissa Wagner.