Branson Officials Ease Cigarette Ban Provisions

BRANSON, Mo. (AP) — Officials in Branson have eased some provisions of a proposal to ban smoking of cigarettes and electronic cigarettes in most public places. The Board of Aldermen in the southwest Missouri resort town has rewritten the proposal to allow smoking in up to 20 percent of rooms in hotels and motels. The proposed maximum fine for violations has also been reduced to $25 from $500. The aldermen may vote on the proposed ordinance on Oct. 14.