Jump to full article: St. Louis (MO) Post-Dispatch, 2009-10-31
Intro: The editorial "Their smoke, your health" (Oct. 25), in favor of the St. Louis County smoking ban, did not provide all the reasons why people are opposed to Proposition N, which will be on the Nov. 3 ballot. The ban is unfair, isn't needed and could cause a loss of jobs and tax dollars for St. Louis County.
Perhaps the most obvious reason to oppose the smoking ban is that it needlessly would infringe on the freedom of those who want to enjoy a cigarette in places where smoking is allowed. Any person bothered by such establishments has the freedom to not patronize them.
And modern filtration systems have all but eliminated the dangers of secondhand smoke. . . .
On Nov. 3, St. Louis County voters can save jobs, save tax dollars, save freedom and help many small businesses stay in business by voting "no" on Proposition N.
Bill Hannegan -- St. Louis
Missourians are ready for a smoke-free state
Regarding "Smoking ban is in hands of a few" (Oct. 28): I am quoted briefly about Proposition N on the Nov. 3 ballot in St. Louis County. Without additional information, my quote is open to misinterpretation. . . .
Strong and comprehensive smoke-free policies prevent sickness and death, and Missouri would save millions in state spending on tobacco-related illnesses.
I believe Missouri is ready for a smoke-free policy, but, because key leaders stand in the way, this is a case in which the people will have to take the power into their own hands through local ordinances.
When a critical mass of local ordinances has been reached, a statewide law will become inevitable. I wish the policy being considered for St. Louis County was stronger, but it is a good beginning. People who care about public health should vote yes Proposition N (St. Louis County) and Proposition I (Kirkwood) on Nov. 3 in order to move the state forward.
State Rep. Jeanette Mott Oxford -- D-St. Louis
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