Missouri House rejects smoking ban in Capitol offices

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (AP) -- The Missouri House has rejected an attempt to ban smoking in members' offices.

Smoking already is barred in the House chamber and public galleries.

Lawmakers voted Thursday to prohibit smoking in a gallery reserved for members in the back of the chamber, but rejected a ban on smoking in their own offices.

The policies only apply to the areas of the Capitol building controlled by the Missouri House.

The House voted without dissent Thursday to approve new rules to govern the chamber.

The rules also are designed to give more power to the Democratic minority. Democratic leaders will be allowed to choose the committee assignments for most members of their party.

Cape Girardeau voters will likely consider a public smoking ban on the April ballot.