Lots of silly comments are being made by people who clearly don't understand economics or American history.
The economic perspective: Private business must ATTRACT customers. They cannot force anyone to enter their premises or spend money there. Bullies don't understand the "voluntary" nature of free enterprise. Only the government has the power of force. Private business does exactly what individuals do -- what's in his/her/its own best interest. If businesses were losing good customers and good employees because of smoke, they would prohibit the activity on their own -- for economic survival. ....and for those who missed American history: One of our founding principles is that the individual's rights are supreme. This of course protects unpopular persons from mob rule. It's very important to understand the importance of this concept: Individual rights ALWAYS trump "group think". In the case of smoking, Minneapolis is attempting to cram majority (80% don't smoke) opinion down the throats of the minority (20% do smoke). Tobacco is a legal product, and when used by adults on private property, it's none of the government's business. If tobacco is as harmful as the bullies claim, the Legislature and/or Congress should make it illegal. Of course, they're too chicken for that (plus they need the tax revenue). So Minneapolis is trying to regulate tobacco out of existence -- while pretending our Constitution doesn't exist. Minneapolis might take the Duluth approach....by putting the question on the ballot next November. Of course, the zealots don't want that....because it's too fair and equitable, and they might lose. You see Minneapolis is a one-party town. There is no public debate. There is no opposing opinion. There are no checks and balances. Policy in Minneapolis is driven by a small group of vocal activists (and their chosen leaders) who impose their wishes on the worn out, busy, and broke masses. A younger person might find the energy to fight the establishment, but I'd rather enjoy my life where fun and freedom abound. Fortunately, there is no shortage of such places around the Country. Vicky Heller North Oaks and Cedar-Riverside REMINDERS: 1. Think a member has violated the rules? Email the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
