(As seen on) 
A proposed statewide smoking ban passes the Illinois Senate. Now it's on to the House. But before local lawmakers vote they get to hear how people in Winnebago County feel about the issue.The Smoke Free Illinois Act would ban smoking in all indoor public areas, including bars and restaurants, and within 15 feet of an entrance to a public building. 16 states have similar laws. Tuesday Winnebago County voters who don't live in Rockford will answer the question "Should Illinois Do the Same?"When voters in Winnebago County head to the polls they'll do more than just pick elected leaders. Also on the ballot is an advisory referendum on the state-wide smoking ban. Loves Park Alderman Clint Little filed a petition to get the smoke free question on the ballot. "My hope is that with the passage of this public referendum it'll let our state representatives in the area know how we feel and that their vote is very important to those they represent and the people who want to keep smoking in public places. They have the same opportunity as those who don't."Smoking ban proposals in Rockton and Machesney Park lost steam. Little says individual communities are afraid to pass a ban, worried about tax revenue going to surrounding areas that allow people to light up. Little says, "I haven't tried here because I know it wouldn't even get a second but I feel that in talking with the council members, and other people who represent districts across the state that a statewide ban everyone's in favor of because it equals the playing field."Little will get some help from the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. Volunteers are calling voters to let them know about the question and encourage them to weigh in. Heather Higgins says, "Eight Illinoisans die everyday from exposure to second hand smoke so we want to make sure the voters of Illinois have the chance to weigh in on this issue."The American Cancer Society made similar calls before the Senate voted on the bill. Those calls patch constituents right through to their legislators to give their opinion. Updated: April 16, 2007, 7:53 pm
