INDIANAPOLIS – Indiana Gov. Mitch Daniels wants to fast-track a statewide smoking ban in order to have it law before the Super Bowl XLVI, scheduled for Feb. 5 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, the Reporter-Times reports.

“I think the time has come for a statewide smoking ban,” said Daniels during a speech on Friday to the Kiwanis Club of Indianapolis. “I think that evidence has grown. I think that public support has grown.”

Daniels indicated that both parties are working to pass a smoking ban during 2012. “I look forward to the next session as I’ve looked forward to every session,” he said. “We’re going to make more headway. We’re going to further distinguish Indiana from other states.”

Previously, the governor had held the position that localities could pass their own smoking bans, but he had also said he wouldn’t veto a statewide ban if approved by lawmakers.

The 2012 legislative session marks the first one with Daniels actively supporting a statewide smoking ban. He wants the ban in place before Indianapolis hosts the Super Bowl. “I know the city has tried and might be able to address it locally,” he said. “I think it’d be a really good idea to move fast.”

Other ban proposals were shot down over disputes on bar, casino and other exemptions. Senate President Pro Tem David Long said that a smoking ban would probably pass if advocates would allow some exemptions.