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McISAAC: Holy Smokes! 

The law is the same. It is not perfect, and it is not everyone’s ideal. FSPTCA is neither perfect nor ideal. Its precautionary measures are commendable but its limitations too many. As Wagner said, “It’s obstructing capitalism. It’s basically shutting down a company. Djarum, imported by Kretek, only sells flavored cigarettes, such as cloves.”

Djarum is selling their products to people of legal age. They are allowed to target ads at younger people. Though the law cracks down on this, they are not the ones who are responsible for not taking IDs and selling their products to underage smokers. And with the law coming down harder on underage smoking and advertising aimed at children, it seems unfair to deprive smokers of options. “Part of underage smoking is doing something just to get away with it, and some kids will try it anyways,” said Adair. “The images and lack of flavoring will only help to a certain extent.”

Change can be good, and it is important to keep the future in mind. However, it is also important to remember that freedoms exist for a reason, and ridding people of options will not force them to get rid of habits altogether.

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