ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. —  The Navajo Nation Council has approved a ban on commercial tobacco in public places on its vast reservation _ including such outdoor venues as rodeos and fairs.

The measure would ban cigarettes and chewing tobacco _ but not tobacco used in ceremonies for traditional or religious purposes _ on the reservation across parts of Arizona, New Mexico and Utah. The reservation is about the size of West Virginia.

Legislation sponsor Thomas Walker Jr. says delegates approved the measure 42-27 Friday.

Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley Jr. has 10 days to sign or veto the law once it reaches his desk.

Violators could be fined $100 for a first offense, $200 for a second offense and $500 for the third or possible community service.

(This version CORRECTS that ban was approved, but must still be signed by president.)

Copyright 2008 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.