On Sun, 20 Jun 2004 08:58:48 -0500 Mike Jensvold
<[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote:
(Snip)
Lets save "rights" for the basics: speech, religion, etc. Arguing
for smoker's rights is a dead end, arguing that "Clean air is your right"
is simplistic.
Don't ban smoking in bars, and clubs. Leave the people a few vices.
COMMENT:
Although I am a chain smoker, I agree smoking is a "vice" and not a
"right". Further, most estimates that I have seen indicate that only 20
to 30% of the population smokes. Where is the market incentive to cater
to people like me?
We have a clear policy in the United States and Minnesota and
particularly in Minneapolis to regulate allowed vices with fees and
taxes. Why are we talking about a total ban? Where is the city income in
that?
The 70 to 80% of the people who do not smoke and many who do smoke,
do not want to be trapped in a smoke filled room. Specially designed
rooms with special ventilation are costly. Perhaps bar and restaurant
owners could have a special cover charge to enter those smoking rooms to
defray expenses, special fees, and new taxes? If there is no market for
such rooms, that will end the discussion. After a through sterilization,
the cover charged space might then be used for hyper allergenic customers
who may be increasing as a percentage of the population?
I also think that we should amend the 1996 Minnesota Clean Air Act
rather than piece meal enactment of city ordinances. Tourism works best
with a consistent policy.
Thanks.
John O'Neal
Holland Neighborhood
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