Providence, R.I., May Ban Smoking Ads Near Schools

The city council in Providence, R.I., is considering a ban on smoking advertisements on billboards within 500 feet of public schools, churches, community centers, and other places where children play.

Sponsors of the proposal argue that tobacco advertisers' access to young people should be curbed. "The Marlboro macho man and Joe Camel make kids think it's cool to smoke," said Patricia Nolan, the council member who proposed the ban. Joe Camel, the cartoon character used to advertise Camel cigarettes, has angered many health groups, which argue that the character is designed to appeal to young people.

Tobacco-industry officials have repeatedly denied such claims and have challenged attempts to limit...