I disagree with your stance on the proposed statewide smoking ban as articulated in Friday's editorial, "Higher tax may be better than smoking ban." I also take issue with the previous editorial on this subject.
Secondhand smoke is comprised of dangerous toxins clearly documented to cause cancer and heart disease. According to Michael F. Roizen, M.D., in his book, "The Real Age Makeover," being exposed to secondhand smoke for one hour is the equivalent of smoking four cigarettes or one cigar.
My husband and I know many working musicians - the kind who gig in smoky clubs night after night - who would dearly love a statewide (or even nationwide) smoking ban so they would not be forced to work in conditions detrimental to their health. One such musician told me that it's a real treat when his band performs in Madison because they don't have to be exposed to the smoke. And there are plenty of nonsmoking bartenders, waitresses and others who are forced to rely on jobs in unhealthy environments.
As a businessperson who has had to deal with cash flow and payroll, I understand your point. And as a former smoker who tried about five times before I finally quit 25 years ago, I understand the addiction. But in my opinion, the public health issues trump all else. Wisconsin citizens deserve a statewide smoking ban.
Secondhand smoke is comprised of dangerous toxins clearly documented to cause cancer and heart disease. According to Michael F. Roizen, M.D., in his book, "The Real Age Makeover," being exposed to secondhand smoke for one hour is the equivalent of smoking four cigarettes or one cigar.
My husband and I know many working musicians - the kind who gig in smoky clubs night after night - who would dearly love a statewide (or even nationwide) smoking ban so they would not be forced to work in conditions detrimental to their health. One such musician told me that it's a real treat when his band performs in Madison because they don't have to be exposed to the smoke. And there are plenty of nonsmoking bartenders, waitresses and others who are forced to rely on jobs in unhealthy environments.
As a businessperson who has had to deal with cash flow and payroll, I understand your point. And as a former smoker who tried about five times before I finally quit 25 years ago, I understand the addiction. But in my opinion, the public health issues trump all else. Wisconsin citizens deserve a statewide smoking ban.
