Exemptions to Philly indoor smoking ban advancing, for now

A Philadelphia City Council Committee has approved some more exceptions to the city’s no smoking rule, but health officials are upset new exemptions are being granted.

Two strip clubs, a private club’s cigar bar and a neighborhood tavern applied to let their patrons light up despite the public indoor smoking ban.

City Health Commissioner Dr James Buehler is upset the law allows for exemptions.

“Continuing to whittle away at Philadelphia’s smoke free law will further jeopardize the city’s chances to host major health related conferences and the millions of dollars in economic opportunities they bring with them,” he said.

Coucilwoman Marian Tasco hinted the days could be numbered for new exemptions.

“This council and this committee will be looking at measures so we won’t be here again,” she said.

The bars and clubs include Club Risque at 1700 South Columbus Blvd., Pyramid Club’s cigar bar at 1735 Market St., Grumpy’s Pub at 1525 South 9th St. and Vanity Grand at 6130 West Passyunk Ave.  They still have to win approval from the majority of city council.