PLATFORM/Smoke-free zones
Gwinnett County, Ga., has joined the growing list of local governments that have adopted smoking bans. According to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the ban, “which takes effect April 1, bans smoking in all buildings, except for private residences, smoke shops and designated smoking rooms in motels and inns. It makes no exception for restaurants and bars.” American City & County recently asked readers of its e-mail newsletter if it is a good idea for local governments to ban smoking to one degree or another. The majority of respondents supported some type of ban. However, some were concerned that the bans are becoming too comprehensive. Two responses, one supporting bans and the other opposing them, are below.
“It is a good idea for local governments to ban smoking in all buildings, except for private residences, smoke shops and designated smoking rooms in motels and inns because it is a public health issue. Smoking bans have resulted in improved health status while saving significant health care costs, cleaning costs and disability-related expenses. Studies have demonstrated that going smoke-free increases workforce productivity and reduces absenteeism. A recent study in the Journal of American Medicine stated that ‘employees who work in bars and restaurants have a 50 percent greater risk of lung cancer’ and that ‘their risk of coronary heart disease from secondhand smoke is two times higher.’ Furthermore, study after study proves that smoking bans do not decrease revenues nor adversely affect either bar or restaurant sales.”
— Kurt Eggrebrecht, health officer, Appleton, Wis.
“I don’t believe the government should be involved in smoking bans. Unless tobacco is ruled illegal, and [governments] no longer accept contributions and taxes from the tobacco industry, it is hypocritical to interfere with the rights of citizens. As a member of the Niagara Falls, N.Y., City Council, I have seen the detrimental effect on small businesses in our area since New York [state] enacted its smoking ban. Not only has it affected the bar and restaurant businesses, but it has also negatively affected the ancillary businesses that support the hospitality industry.”
— Fran Iusi, former chairwoman, Niagara Falls, N.Y., City Council