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Jump to full article: Examiner.com (National), 2009-10-09
Author: Indianapolis Libertarian Examiner Brett Perry
Intro: There is a new rejuvenated push to ban smoking in private businesses in Indianapolis. Evan Matthews of the Libertarian Party of Indiana had a great op-ed on the topic.
Smoking bans are onerous, misguided and dangerous. As Indianapolis lawmakers debate whether the Circle City requires more stringent smoking legislation, they should stop to consider the economic and realistic implications.
The owner of a private establishment, be it bar, bowling alley or barber shop, should be able to determine . . .
Perhaps worst of all, prohibitive legislation has been shown to increase alcohol-related fatalities. Bans give patrons incentives to drive farther in order to find bars that allow smoking. . . .
Smoking bans are heavy-handed attempts to control individual preference and limit choice. As a by-product of this oppressive, one-size-fits-all legislation, local business owners will likely face revenue declines in the tens of millions. Stubborn smokers will travel to neighboring counties, driving business out of Indianapolis in order to drink and smoke in peace. Afterward, they'll drunkenly swerve their Buicks and Camrys through Circle City streets, recklessly endangering the Marion County populace.
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