Tobacco farmer’s son endorses smoking ban in most workplaces

FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) — A Democratic candidate for governor in Kentucky and the son of a tobacco farmer has endorsed a statewide smoking ban in most workplaces.

The move is a sign of the evolving tobacco politics in a state once defined by the cancer-causing cash crop.

Adam Edelen announced his support for the ban on Tuesday. He is one of four Democrats running for governor this year.

Edelen said his plan would cover enclosed workplaces, including bars and restaurants with three or more employees.

Kentucky has one of the highest smoking rates in the country and the state had historically depended on tobacco as a cash crop. Many local governments have passed workplace smoking bans, but efforts to pass a statewide law have stalled.

Edelen said Kentuckians must “stop being victims of our history.”