Smokers may be taking it outside soon in Michigan
I am not a smoker but I think telling business owners they can't allow smoking in their establishments is a very bad idea.
Yes, I know smoking is bad for you and second-hand smoke is potentially harmful, but who has the right to tell a private citizen can and can't do with their business?
Apparently, the Michigan House does. It voted to approve a ban on smoking in workplaces, including bars and restaurants. Apparently, casinos would be exempt. (Must have made the proper campaign contributions.)
The Senate has to approve the bill, and in the past, the Senate wanted a bill with no exemptions so we will see what happens.
If the Senate kills the bill it will be doing the right thing for the wrong reason.
As a non-smoker, I would prefer not to breath others' smoke, but who am I to say they can't enjoy themselves? I was never forced to enter a bar or restaurant in my life, so if I don't want to be exposed to second-hand smoke I don't have to patronize places that allow smoking.
Because of potential health risks and the fact smoking makes everyone stink, businesses that allow smoking should have proper signage stating they allow smoking. I also don't think businesses should be forced to have non-smoking sections, but if they don't that should be posted as well.
I understand why people want the ban. It is better for the health of everyone if they don't smoke and where it has been put in effect, businesses have shown increased profits. But, private busineses should be allowed to make that call.
Public buildings like courthouses, Post Offices, county buildings and the like should be smoke free because people are required to frequent those places. On the flip-side, no one is forced to eat at Mel's Diner or drink beer at Hooters so those businesses should do what they want.
Freedom of choice is (or was) the American way.
Until next time, enjoy Michigan - and take a puff at your local watering hole before it's too late.
