While a proposed smoking ban has failed twice in recent years, the Augusta Commission will be considering the proposal within a matter of weeks as Mayor Pro-Tem Corey Johnson thinks it might finally have enough steam to pass. Johnson told WJBF.com that while some bars are going smoke-free without a ban in place, he feels that enacting an no smoking ordinance would help to level the playing field and “take pressure away from owners who fear losing business.” His proposal is expected to be an all-out ban on smoking in public places, including bars. A specific date for the proposal to be presented to the Augusta Commussion has yet to be announced, though Johnson said he expects it will be ready in six weeks. Augusta is the third largest city and second largest metropolitan area in Georgia, with just under 200,000 residents and a metro area of more than 575,000.
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