Some Michigan Veterns Clubs are seeking an exemption to the upcoming smoking ban for their private organizations. They have started a petition drive and would like to present the collected signatures to lawmakers on April 3rd.

From ClickonDetroit.com:

At American Legion Post 179 in Grandville, Army veteran Mike Stapleton of Jenison and others have signed the petition.  

“It’s wrong for lawmakers to tell us private clubs what to do,” said Stapleton, 61, of Jenison, who served in the Vietnam and Desert Storm wars.

 ”This (smoking) should be up to members. When we were under fire, being shot at and bombed, we’d smoke when we got a break to calm our nerves and relax.”

 The smoking ban covers all bars, restaurants and workplaces, but cigar bars and the gaming floors of existing casinos are exempt. 

For more information, please see Vets Want Exemption From Smoking Ban