Boulder leaders pass ban on smoking on Pearl Street Mall

BOULDER, Colo. — In front of a packed chamber filled with anxious faces, the decision made inside Boulder’s council chambers will have a major impact on one of Colorado’s most famous streets, Pearl Street.

That’s where you’ll find lot of diverse people. You’ll also find many of them have one thing in common, they smoke.

Tuesday night the city council is a one step closer to putting a stop to it, by a unanimous vote the council banned smoking on Pearl Street on a second reading.

Those supporting the new ordinance say it falls in line with the city’s reputation for a healthy lifestyle, while others call the ban an over-reach.

Because of the council’s last-minute change reducing the smoking fine from $1,000 to $500, one final reading will be required. The law is expected to take effect in early 2013.