AUGUSTA (AP) – A bill modeled after a Portland ordinance that limits smoking on restaurant decks and patios is on its way to the Maine House with a committee’s endorsement.

Rep. Joan Cohen’s bill has received the support of a majority of the Health and Human Services Committee.

The Portland Democrat’s original bill sought to prohibit smoking at restaurants’ outdoor public dining areas until 10 p.m., but public health advocates urged the committee to lengthen the ban to 24 hours per day.

The bill goes to the Maine House for a vote and then faces a Senate vote.