From: Joe@smokefree.org
Date: Tue, 10/24/06
Zanesville EDITORIAL: Vote yes on Issue 5, no on Issue 4
October 23, 2006
There are two proposals on the Nov. 7 ballot that address smoking in public
places. One is well-intentioned and worthy of support. The other is deceitful
and must be rejected.
Issue 5 would ban smoking in public places across Ohio, including bars,
restaurants and workplaces. The issue, which is supported by numerous health
organizations, is a necessary safeguard that would protect Ohio residents.
The danger is real and irrefutable. A U.S. surgeon general's report issued June
27 says "involuntary smoking" puts people at increased risk of death from lung
cancer, heart disease and other illnesses. More importantly, there is no
risk-free level of exposure to someone else's drifting smoke.
Issue 4, backed by the tobacco industry, claims to ban smoking in 90 percent of
public places. But what it really does is guarantee the right to smoke in most
public venues.
The proposed constitutional amendment also would overturn laws in 21 Ohio cities
that ban smoking in public places, and forever forbid communities from enacting
smoke-free ordinances.
That means if 80 percent of voters back Issue 5 and 50.1 percent support Issue
4, Big Tobacco wins. Issue 4 trumps Issue 5 because 4 is a constitutional
amendment.
Do we really want a right to smoke added to Ohio's constitution?
In a perfect world, people would respect the health of others and not light up
in public places. But too many smokers doggedly insist they can pollute the air
anywhere they please. That's why government must step in to protect the health
of the majority of Ohioans who choose not to smoke.
Don't let Big Tobacco fool you. Vote yes on Issue 5 and no on Issue 4.
Joseph W. Cherner
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful citizens can change the
world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Margaret Mead
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