The public smoking debate, or the prohibition of smoking in public debate, has been killed in the Texas state legislature for this session. Thank God!
Let it be known that on occasion, I enjoy a fine cigarette; I would not classify myself as a smoker because I am not one who must have a cigarette to get by. I am simply one of those individuals who are classified as a social smoker. I enjoy a cigarette when I am in the presence of others who likewise enjoy a smoke.
On the flip side, I also do not enjoy being around people smoking while there is eating going on. Before the food arrives, or after the meal is complete, feel free to light up; however, while there is eating going on, please refrain from smoking.
Now, with all that said, let me say this; I salute the state legislature for not pursuing this issue any farther. To ban all public smoking is not a health issue, it is a freedom issue. By placing a ban on public smoking, which many cities have already done, each one of us loses a little bit more of our freedom.
It doesn’t matter what position an individual takes on this smoking issue, it is simply one more step for government to take to dictate how we live our lives. It restricts our freedom by limiting where we are and are not allowed to do those things that are perfectly legal.
This little bit of tyranny always starts with some issue like banning public smoking, and by justifying that, we allow a dangerous precedent to be set; a precedent that will allow government control over other issues.
Protect Your Freedom,
Bill
No comments:
Post a Comment