Should Smoking at Home Be Illegal?
March 20, 2009 by Kathy McManus
Two new legal commandments have been delivered to the Silicon Valley town of Belmont, California:
Thou shalt not smoke in thy apartment
Thou shalt inform authorities of anyone who does smoke in an apartment
Belmont is home to America’s most restrictive secondhand smoking law, which now makes it illegal to light up in an apartment or condo that shares a wall, ceiling, or floor with another unit. Violators face a $100 fine from the city, as well as eviction if smoking violates their lease agreement.
Additionally, the new law makes citizens responsible for enforcing it by encouraging them to call authorities and report their neighbors if they light up in any home other than a free-standing house.
All of which has left some residents fuming--outside.
“I’m absolutely outraged,” said one apartment dweller who now must leave home to smoke her two packs a day. “They’re telling you how to live and what to do, and they’re doing it right here in America.”
Proponents of the new law, including the California Lung Association, see it differently. “They simply said that secondhand smoke is no less dangerous when it’s in your bedroom than in your workplace,” explained a spokesperson.
“They” is the Belmont city council, whose members have received hate mail for passing the no-smoking-at-home ordinance, which one former council member likens to other matters of shared-living etiquette. “You can’t walk around naked in your house with the blinds open, or you’ll get arrested,” he said. “You can’t play loud music in your house and bother your neighbors. It’s illegal.”
But even some supporters of smokers’ responsibility to so-called third parties, such as neighbors, are questioning whether Belmont should butt out. “There are good scientific and public health reasons for restricting smoking in closed public spaces,” said an expert in public health ethics. “But when such restrictions are extended to beaches, parks, sidewalks and now to the homes of smokers, the argument that third-party harms must be prevented becomes increasingly untenable.”
Tell us what you think: Should smokers be responsible for their neighbors’ health? Should citizens be responsible for turning in at-home smokers? How far should government go in determining what you can do in the privacy of your home?
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1258 Comments
What do you think? Leave a comment
March 23, 2009 by Vix
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April 15, 2009 by MK
Reply
April 16, 2009 by Smoking in Belmont
August 3, 2010 by steve mccoy
yes, my comment is that to many people worry to much about what other people are doing. thats why we are almost a comunist country now. we are lawed- to- death now. every big business and snot-nosed group have more say-so than the hard working tax payers. what would the gov. and states do if all us workers stopped paying taxes because we have no rights anymore? what is it with these people who claim they want a free country but don't want anyone else to do something they don't want to do? this supposed to be a free country and i have earned my rights to have freedoms. if i want to smoke than i will smoke , if you don't like it than go your own way but leave me alone. i spent my time in the military and have worked and payed taxes all my life . so i have earned the RIGHT TO BE FREE. what about the rest of you??? sorry but these things pee me off.
August 25, 2010 by spud
...I think both of these rights (swinging and smoking) are due extensions when somone is sticking their nose where it does not belong.
October 14, 2010 by E.SOVISS
THEY STARTED WITH SMOKERS AND THEY ARE GOING TO GET WHAT YOU DRINK WHAT YOU EAT AND THEN THEY ARE COMING IN YOUR HOME YOUR CAR YOUR LIFE.THIS IS NOT A FREE U.S.A. .TAX IS A WHY TO RULE YOUR LIFE.
November 30, 2010 by David Sisk
Like I always tell my guests at my home if you dont like me smoking you can go outside otherwise its not there choice to make since there a vistor to my home and not someone living with me its not there choice to make if lets put it this way if someoen came into your house and started to tall you how to decorate and where to put the funiture and what you should eat and drink, it not only like having your mother live with you but Id throw them oout the door or call the police to have them arrested and removed from the property if they didnt leave at my request, I think tellling me if I can smoke or not smoke in my own home is the very same thing, no oen has the legal right to tell me what I can do in my own home no matter if its my apartment or my house, Its just no morally and legally right, the law has made mistakes like this before and suppose they will agiain, what its boiling down to is the burecrats are jsut trying to raise the price of tobbaco so they can get more taxes and put more money in there greedy pockets like they always do.
December 3, 2010 by Susan
Let us then not tolerate homosexuality, drugs, bad language, children who smell, are rude, loud, play or laugh to much because this is a offensive to others who like a quiet, normal life. I smoke as well as my husband. We pay higher taxes than the rest of you non smokers, yet we have less rights then you. You want fresh air, you can not even go outside because of all the air pollution or do you also wish to blame this on the smokers as well? If I did live in a apartment we would smoke, if you want a smoke free place then buy your own house and then you can do what ever you wish in it including making it a smoke free environment.
December 10, 2010 by ruth
well go to an apartment where there is no smoking. whats the problem, and no, no one should tell anyone what they can or can not do in their own home, that will be like living in hell, don't you think? gee, this country is on it's way to hell , time to get our freedoms back. we don't smoke where we are not to, but dam, don't ever tell anyone not to in their own home! i smoke out side, and i live in a single home, but if i lived in an apartment, hey, thats their home.
December 10, 2010 by wanda
I agree with the comment that smoking in Bellmont said. I don't smoke but get over it. Move or shut up! Everybody has things that they do that somebody doesn't like and I am sure that the women that is complaining about the second hand smoke in the apartments has things she does too that somebody in the apartments doesn't like. You could suggest that their are other alternatives to people who smoke such as the new electronic cigarettes that have come out. Some of my friends and family use them and they don't stink up their house or cars inside. The smoke like substance that comes out of the electronic cigarettes is water vapor and it does not even hurt the children around people who use them. Just a suggestion. Merry Christmas!! to all,
December 19, 2010 by R
I do think it is going too far! I think that what people/smokers should do is start pushing for perfumes and calognes to be restricted where they may offend someone or cause someones allergies to be affected. They have also been known to trigger health issues and there are people out there that evidently don't know what a shower with water is. They bathe or shower in perfumes and calognes instead. I am a smoker and prior to becoming a smoker, i was offended by the amount of perfume or calogne someone was wearing far quicker than cigarette smoke. Lets keep the playing feild level here. After all, there are far more things that can be offensive or a health trigger other than smoke.
August 8, 2011 by Louanne
Nobody has the right to give me cancer, or emphysema with their secondhand smoke. God Bless the Belmont, California Law. Hope it comes to the entire country. I hate secondhand smoke, the smell of alcoholic beverages, the smell of chittlins, the smell of marajuana. More restrictions will be an excellent thing, and very much needed. Americans are out-of-control, with their so-called "liberty and pursuit of happiness." Less noise, less smoke, less sounds good. Next we the people, need to restrict where and when people can use their cell phones. MMMMMmmmmmm.......
August 9, 2011 by LT
It seems to me that a better filtering air system could be installed in apartment buildings that would remove smoke before it invades other apartments. I have seen some hospitals that have smoking huts for smokers that does a good job at filter away the smoke from cigarettes. As far outlawing smoking in the confines of ones home I believe goes to far in invasion of anyone's privacy rights. LT
August 11, 2011 by Chris
A word of advise - this is still America so MOVE. Get an air purifier and QUIT whining. There are lots of things we don't like about life and dealing with other people, noise, dust, smoke, airplanes, traffic, parking, etc., etc., so get over it already.
August 13, 2011 by Joseph Schwartz
I wonder if anyone ever thinks that if smoking were outlawed nationwide, 100,000 tobacco workers would be laid off, and the billions and billions in cigarette tax revenue would be lost. I guess they'd tax the air next.
August 16, 2011 by Daniel Boone
You're FREE to move! You don't like the freedoms this country offers MOVE to Europe! See how you life SOCIALISM!
August 16, 2011 by POLLUX
"Your right to swing your arm stops where my nose begins and same with your smoke." Sorry, you are wrong. If you're nose is within reach of my arm, you are in my space...butt out.
August 16, 2011 by ed
Then buy a house. You will say the same about a smoker but they are renting like everyone else. Smoking is legal and should not be banned by an apartment complex. They are in the wrong business if they want to control people. They city and state should either drop this ridiculous law or cut out the state and local tax on the product they despise. I am not a smoker but I see the writing on the wall. You let them take one product away, harmful or not and you open the door. Fast food which for a lot of people is the cheapest way to eat.....10 dollar value meals. 3 dollar cans of soda. Keep complaining idiots and some day, you to will lose something you like that others oppose. Ridiculous. Buy a house and do better for yourself if you care that much.
August 19, 2011 by DK
MK, I noticed you jumped on Brenda and said that her arm swinging stops when nose breathes it., well what if you had kids and your kids were bothering me, living next door to you, then I have a right to say where your arm swings and my sleep, and enjoyment of peace and quite comes to your kids, then think you need to move away and take those noisy kids with you., or what if you were over weight and your walking around next door, or up above me was disturbing my sleep, and yes that and the kids are a health hazard, because if I can't get sleep, then it affects my health, or another example, what if you drank a little alcohol and you becames billigerent and was up past my bed time making noise, think you should move. People stop and think what this government is doing to us. Before you just up and start agreeing with them. Our freedoms are going out the door and going out fast and we are allowing it.
August 24, 2011 by MOTHER OF A SON WITH ASTHMA
dont stand for that tell the smokers to move away i dont want to die from your second hand smoke . tell your property management if possible that unless they do something youll move . take a petition around your building asking others to support each other in living ina smoke free environment and submit it to your management . there are smoke free buuildings but unfortunatly they tend to be way more expensive :( i believe all peple with children should smoke outdoors . we know asking the nicotene junkies to quit just causes more problems it makes them extreamly aggitated if we dare say anything about that little cigg has them all by the balls . i refuse to be the pawn of nicotene
August 26, 2011 by Alice
I'm not a smoker, but I find this disturbing.
What about my coworkers who wear perfume to work and those who wear it in public places ? (I am allergic to it, as are many others). Should they be prohibited? They are exposing us to allergens.
What about the obese who cost taxpayers billions in healthcare costs? What about parents too lazy to cook who frequently feed their kids fast food? (Second-hand obesity).
Let's form neighborhood watches and turn them all in.
Just what we need: More laws telling us how to live.
August 29, 2011 by Darby
All of these comments about freedom, and them coming to tell you what to eat, drink, decorate, are ignoring the issue that second hand cigarette smoke hurts others. You do not have the RIGHT to poison me just because you choose to poison yourself. If you have a free standing house you can smoke. They not telling you not to kill yourself. They're making it harder to kill other people with your choice of smoking. Our RIGHT to breathe air trumps your choice. Sorry if it inconviences you, but then you can move!
August 31, 2011 by Paula Lawson
No It doesn't. You have the right to live where you want to and I am sure you wouldn't take an apartment without first researching and going to it to take a look. What in this world do you think gives you the right to dictate how others should live? You don't have that right. You do, however, have the right to live the way you want to. If you don't like smoke then find an apartment that either doesn't allow smoking or ask your landlord for an apartment near non smokers or buy or rent a trailer or house of your own....you have these options...why shouldn't smokers have options as well? What makes you so important that others should live to make you their number one priority? Here is a reality check for you. No one who is not your spouse is going to live their life to please you. Some will live to please God, some will live to please others, and some will live to please themselves. You are no different from anyone else and no special treatment is going to be afforded to you because you think that is the way it should be. If you think differently then perhaps another country, not built upon mans freedoms and rights, would be more suitable for you. The only person who has any responsibility to you is you, and to demand that people with a different life style bow down and concede to you and your views is not only an unattainable fantasy but a showing of how truly selfish and undeserving of the freedoms afforded to every man woman and child you are.
September 1, 2011 by Maggiepo
I own a condo that has shared walls. I smoke occasionally in my unit and NOBODY is going to tell me I cannot. I pay mortgage payments, taxes and condo fees. What I do in my own home is my business, no matter what it is!
September 11, 2011 by Donald
Someone actually said "Putting up with stinky smoke is not life threatening, it's just bothersome, don't you think?"
Seriously? The whole reason that this issue is an issue at all is because smoke kills and it doesn't matter if it's the person actually smoking or not. Where have you been for the past 20 years???????
September 13, 2011 by auto762
Then MOVE.
September 19, 2011 by AB
If the world was perfect, folks would still find things wrong with others. You could live anywhere in the world and still not be happy with your surroundings.Sometimes you have to overlook things that others do, cause THEY are the ones that will help you the most in the long run.
September 30, 2011 by Rob
WOW! Are you that aggressive towards coal power plants? How about car exhaust?
If you answered no to either or both, you are a hypocrite that takes satisfaction in making choices for someone else.
Do the bulk of us have to put up with idiot drivers going 10 under in the fast lane? yes Do we have to put up with self-righteous fools driving after a few drinks? yes
So why should YOUR OPINION matter in my home? Did you not also have the choice on where you wanted to live? Sounds like you chose to live next to a smoker. Deal with it. This behavior is NOT the land of the free or home of the brave....this is nanny state and bordering on fascist rule.
October 3, 2011 by Trinidad1107
Sorry about your 'stinky' apartment.... but you are missing the point completely. it is not about smells, otherwise cooking in your apartment would be banned along with burning incense. Smoking is banned in public spaces because secondhand smoke is unhealthy for non smokers, not because it stinks (which I agree it does). Please open your eyes to what is slowly happening in California, because these laws will spread throughout the US if we do not fight back.
ps I am a nonsmoker!
October 13, 2011 by samantha
If you dont like a stinky apartment then MOVE or CLEAN IT. It seems there are way to mant people worried about smokers but dont seem to have a problem with drunk drivers. This has gotten way out of hand. I live in Ohio and I voted yes for a law that made it illegal to smoke in a bar, restuarant public places like that , and yes im a smoker. I did this because it was the right thing to do nobody should have to smell smoke while they are eating or enjoying an afternoon at the park with their children. I dont have that right to impose my habits on anyone else, BUT telling someone they cannot smoke in their home because its adjoing with another unit is absolutely ABSURD. Government doesnt have the right to tell me what I cant do in my own home, as usual they want to be big brother, well guess what Im 36 years old and Im a big girl. I know smoking causes all different kinds of cancer and thats my choice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
October 13, 2011 by Nita
I personally think things are going to the dogs. It is completely wrong to tell people who are paying rent they can't smoke in their unit. I have lost people to cancer who haven't smoked a day in their life so get off of the second hand smoke blah blah bull crap. I find lots of thing offensive, but I don'[t set out to make a jerk out of myself by trying to take away someone's freedom to do it I just take myself out of the situation and leave them to live their own life and that's what people need to do mind their own business.
October 23, 2011 by clane
Then don't rent it. You don't have to rent a smoked in apartment.
October 30, 2011 by Bruce Schacter
Smoking at home and while driving are two of the last spaces we can feel comfortable enough to light up without being persecuted by the non-smoking population. It is our choice to smoke - albeit a poor decision - but we have our personal rights to do so regardless of next-door neighbors. When purchasing a condo, or considering the move to an apartment, it is the new buyers/renters obligation to ask the question and determine if smokers live next door to them before making their move. How many people are kept awake at night due to a neighbor's dog that barks incessantly?? These anti-smokers can complain all they want, but smoking in a person's abode is not going to be enforced...
October 30, 2011 by JR
First off, that is a violation of rights if I have ever heard of one. Second, if they make it illegal for us to smoke in one's own appartment, then why not make it illegal to set an alarm because the neighbor might hear it or to not eat a paticular dish of food at one's home because the neighbor might smell it and make them feel sick to their stomach. I am sure thankful that I am not represented by the group of people who call themselves the Belmont City Counsil who represnt a big portion of where America went wrong.
November 3, 2011 by Josie
Hey Brenda, I am a non smoker, always have been. I'm NOT one of these nut cases who HAD smoked, I KNEW because I was smarter than most, that putting smoke in one's lungs HAS to be bad, That said, even I can understand Gestapo like laws (even though done for a noble reason) is BAD news, VERY bad. First, you mention smoke laden walls, well, that's why hotel rooms are divided, and so should apartments or condos. But to tell someone what they can or can't do in the privacy of their own PAID for home is going too far. You mention your rights begin where the other's nose begins. Fine, so what about people losing sleep because a couple is busy making love. That is also a violation of my right to get a GOOD NIGHT's sleep. Sound ridiculous? No way if you consider what these jackasses are doing to smokers in their own homes. When does this stupidity end??? ANYONE CAN CLAIM ANY ILL HEALTH DUE TO WHATEVER THEIR NEIGHBOR MIGHT BE DOING IN THEIR OWN HOME. I just wish folks would use half the brain that God gave a duck.
November 4, 2011 by Elaine
When you moved in it wasn't a smoke free apartment was it? If u don't like it then move your rear out and shut up. Your home is your own dwelling and you should be able to do whatever you want in your own home. It's like having to use seat belts in your own vehicle. We have no rights here in America anymore.
November 5, 2011 by Tim Blanton
for the people in states that have not yet allowed the smoking nazi's into your state. stick to your cig's or this too will be how it works for you. this is suposed to be America, and in America a person is allowed to do what he/she wants in there home. This is just one more method that is used by cause mongers to tell the rest off use how to live. If your nose is close enough to my cigar in my house, the hand holding the cigar may smack your nose for telling me whats OK in a house other than yours. mind your self, not myself.
November 5, 2011 by Voiceoreason
Next thing you know you will tell us what kind of deodorant we can wear. It's hypocrites like you that pick a topic to be a complete butt about but then will defend your rights with voracity. I am tired of hearing what it good for you, god knows this is ALL ABOUT YOU. Gee, can I be like you too? are you going to make me be like you?
November 14, 2011 by Debby
If any non-smokers don't want to be around smokers in "their homes", then I suggest you have YOUR city build non-smokling apartments for you. The smokers have had enough of their rights taken away. No, I don't smoke, but enough is enough! Equal rights are equal rights...butt out! Pun intended.
November 30, 2011 by Mike
This is bull. I have 3 neighbors on every side of me each side and above they all smoke I have asthma and it DOES NOT get into my apartment ever, I would know. If it does then your Property Management firm should be contacted to fix the problem Also waiting to see how long the lawsuits start against these cities and after the California Supreme Court rules they are illegal how much it is going to cost the cities for lawyer fees and taxpayers Big Brother needs to keep out of apartments and condos
December 10, 2011 by Jim
Then you must really freak out when you go outside and breathe in pollution, vapors, smog, fumes, etc. What do you do--hold your breath? lol.
December 10, 2011 by Rayford
Why don't you go buy a house then you can control what goes on in the home. You or the government has a right to tell people what they can do with their own bodies. That is what is wrong with US now people are getting in other people's business. Everybody needs to mind their own business!!!!!
December 13, 2011 by Michael J. Benardo
You should have a window opened. Sealed houses breed TB and pneumonia. The stink you smell is not because somebody in your building smokes, it is because you won't allow fresh air into your apartment, hence, it smells stale. Because it is.
Mike
December 15, 2011 by James
I bet you go out drinking, thne get in your vehicle and drive. That bothers me, becuse you put me at risk.
December 18, 2011 by sherri kirkland
If you do not pay for their apartment you should not have a right to tell that person how to live. People smoke in their cars too. You think you should have the right to tell them where to drive because it bothers you. YOU DONT PAY THEIR BILLS you should mind your own business. Otherwise rent a house and you won't have to deal with other peoples habits that you don't like. I dont think drinking should be legal but I beleive people should be able to do what they want as long as they do it in the comfort of their own home, KEY WORDS THEIR HOME NOT YOURS
December 19, 2011 by SGB
@smoking in belmont: Yes, your stinky smokes threatens my life because it triggers asthma, which can kill.
January 17, 2010 by Donald Mason
Reply
January 18, 2010 by Rick Starwindwalker
June 24, 2010 by JSY1221
Oh please, I live in a condo, the gentleman that lives next to me is a smoker and the only reason that I know this was because I knocked on his door to ask him if he had any water damage from storms. When he opened the door I then could smell the cigarettes...I had no clue for 2 years that this man even smoked. My son's room shares a common wall, my son has asthma, not one attack in the 2 years we've been living there and my son can always smell cigarettes...he also had no clue. What is wrong with this world that we are going to tell people what they can and can't do in their home. Cigarettes are not an illegal substance, if someone wants to smoke in the privacy of their condo or apartment (and I've been apartment and condo living for 11 years and have yet to be affected by anyone's smoking habits), they should be able to do so, they pay rent, just as I do and they have rights. I don't want the state or government dictating my life in my home, it won't stop at cigarette smoking and before you know it we no longer will be a free country, What is wrong with everyone that no one sees how this violates our rights whether or not you are a smoker, this is just the beginning...welcome to communism.
July 2, 2010 by Ty
Car, bus, lawnmower, snow blower, gas edger and truck exhaust are as or more dangerous. Unless you start walking, biking, only buying locally produced goods, mow and shovel manually, STFU
July 7, 2010 by Sharon
I don't think you were very nice. You don't get it. By our governments dictating what we can do in our own homes, cigarette smoking is only the beginning. Let me ask you something -- are you perfect with no bad habits? I have worked all of my life and have always been healthy, yet my taxes go up and so does my insurance when I have to help pay for people who have bad health issues because of their eating, drinking and lazy lifestyles. I have also known health nuts who died at relatively young ages, regardless of how hard they tried not to get sick. Just because medical technology is able to keep people alive who in the past would have died doesn't give you a guarantee to a long life. I also think too many people make themselves sick and die just from "worrying" about such matters. You might try taking some nutrition, health and biology classes if you don't believe me. Your genetics have a lot to do with your health and lifespan, and that can't be blamed on the world in general (or your neighbors).
November 2, 2010 by DUTCH
ALL THESE SHS LAWS ARE BASED ON THE LIE THE EPA TOLD IN 1995.THEY NEVER PROVED SHS EVER HARMED ANYONE! COMMON SENSE WILL TELL YOU, IF IT TAKES A SMOKER 15-20 YRS. TO GET CANCER, HOW LONG WOULD IT TAKE SOMEONE ACROSS THE ROOM TO GET IT? 100 YRS. MAYBE?
November 23, 2010 by jeni
Millions of Americans are allergic to the mold in perfume. Are we banning perfume?
November 27, 2010 by rose
Reallly? I have lived in my apartment going on 6 years. I have seen neighbors come and go above me and below. Yes there were some that were annoying, but my current neighbor below is a chain smoker and has a terrible case of smokers cough. In the evening, he sits on his patio talling onthe phone (loudy) and smokes one after the other. The smokes drifts into my apartment and forces me to close the windows and run the air conditioning..mind you it is cold outside. I have asthma and have complained to the management several times. The response is "he/she are allowed to smoke, make reasonable noise between the hours of 8am to 10pm. And I have to accept this eventhough the neighbor's chain smoking is litterly choking me. Then he has the nerve to complain to management that I "slam" my door shut and that is disruptive to the neighbors life...something is totally off balance here. I need a resolution to this. Any advice out there?
December 19, 2010 by R
Well then. lets get alcohol in this mix! Lets focus on the true dangers of alcohol also. It leads to child abuse, spousal abuse, misconduct in public, vehicle accidents that kill people and murder just to mention a few. How about that????? And, the consumption of alcohol is done in the home also. So, how bout we make it illegal to drink in your APARTMENT ALSO. Because that could be offensive if you have to listen to someone getting beat or even killed because of an alcohol induced rage. How bout the alcoholic that passes out while cooking and catches their apartment on fire. Hmm, I think this could lead to the death of a loved one also. DON'T YOU? or i guess their child can just grow up with the scars from having survived with burns over 70% of their body, i guess that would be acceptable because it wasn't second hand alcohol that caused their injuries!
May 14, 2011 by CB
I am a smoker, but I do consider those who don't. What I do in MY apartment is my business. If I'm around someone that doesn't smoke, I'll ask them if my cigarette smoke would bother them, if they say YES I move away, if NO then I'll light up. I DO NOT smoke around children or the elderly no matter where I'm at. Everyone is different whether they smoke, drink, exercise, whatever, to each his/her own. And yes, I do know that smoking is not good for my health, but it's MY CHOICE to smoke, I thought that is what made the US so great/different from other countries-having CHOICES. If one day I give it up great, it's not my place to tell other smokers where they should or should not smoke. Everyone will do whatever they want for however long they want to do it. When a person is ready to quit, they will no matter what the General Surgeon, statistics and other data may or may not prove. I smoke out on my balcony not in my apartment.
August 5, 2011 by Deb
Ok, I am a smoker and YES, I am addicted to nicotine. I will say I OWN my own home and will do as I wish. I also will say if I lived in an apartment I would also do as I wish. That is going to be VERY hard to prove and lawsuits will be coming I am sure. I get the second hand smoke stuff. I do NOT smoke in my car or in my home when my grandkids come over. I have all the windows open when I do smoke anyways and most times I actually go out on the front porch. I actually believe that second hand smokes needs to be just that...SECOND HANDE right next to another person for it to be harmful. If you are sitting on a beach and another person is like 10 feet away they are NOT going to get Cancer from you smoking. Just not going to happen. If a smoker is in their own apartment and the next door neighbor can slightly SMELL some smoke, again they are NOT going to get Cancer from this. This is just worked up people with nothing better to do with their life or their time. They want to bud into others business where they should stay the heck out of. Just wonderful to pit neighbor against neighbor. If you do NOT like it, non smokers need to move. I guess its OK for the drunk to drink in his apartment and then get in his car in the apartment parking lot and be driving drunk. And what about people wearing perfume...Makes allergies much worse for people with allergies. What about loud music that can harm eardrums. These can harm people but its always the smokers that get the heat. ALWAYS...I never smoke in someone elses home or car. I do not smoke in outside patios where people are sitting or near the pool areas of places. These non smokers need to really get a life. How sad for them they have nothing better to do. It is NOT going to work because I feel that most neighbors will NOT report their neighbor....just because they know this one ban will lead to many many others and more of your own freedoms will be lost. Be careful what you wish for. I can see LOTS of punctured tires on peoples cars and broken windows if neighbors turn on their neighbors...Smokers are doing to do what they wish in their own homes and apartments and BIG BROTHER needs to butt out. Literally...
August 5, 2011 by Sandy
Rose....One word...MOVE
August 8, 2011 by Don K.
Does anyone know personally for a fact that someone has died of second hand smoking? My mom was a non smoker and was never exposed to second hand smoking, but she passed away from lung cancer for unknown reason. My mom's older brother's wife also had a minor lung cancer and she has never smoked or have been exposed to second hand smoking.
Honestly, I gag from fumes coming out of city buses and trucks more than from a bar filled with smoke. There is no solid proof that cigarettes cause cancer, studies have shown that it "may" cause cancer. I have known many people who have smoked for 60-70 years and died from old age.
What I really want to ban are the people who are so full of themselves because they hate the smell of tobacco smoke and just want to ban smoking for their own personal reasons. Thank GOD I don't live in California, the worst place for smokers. You know when I was a kid, second hand smoke never bothered me. My grandpa smoked pipes, cigars, and cigarettes next to me and it never bothered me a bit. If I was locked in a closet with him smoking, yes of course, that's a no brainer. California's SMOG is from CARS, not second hand smoking, I rather have them BAN cars before cigarettes. You snobs should first fix air pollution which cause acid rain, which actually is killing the eco system, plus causes asthma.
August 19, 2011 by Steve
It doesn't matter whether I live in a house or an apartment, you or any one else does not have the right to come in and tell me what I can or can't do in the privacy of my home. Taking freedoms away starts small and before you know it you have no freedoms at all.
August 19, 2011 by Joseph Larsen
You can only give your freedoms away. In Washington State their is now a tax on sugar. It is added for soda and candy to try and sway people from eating those. This was done after the state passed all the laws against cigarettes and banning smoking from all public areas. In fact it has been debated whether or not to allow people to smoke in their own vehicles do toll personnel. That ban may be coming but back to the point, once a liberty is taken away, you never get it back without a fight. First, cigarettes. Fine, I don't smoke. So why are we banning them rather than letting public opinion govern what happens. Make laws stating that waitstaff don't have to work in smoking areas. You'll find people that will. Banning them from bars. Border towns in Washington such Clarkston, Pullman, and others saw their bars close overnight when the ban went into effect because Idaho doesn't have the ban. In New York and California, they passed laws against trans fat (the stuff found in vegetable oils). The Democrat Congress (before it was replaced in 2010) proposed a tax on sugary drinks, junk food, and anything "unhealthy" as part of the health care bill. Now it is just a part of the health care bill that can effect premiums by weight since this country is considered 20lbs heavier than it was a generation ago (the average age is 10 years older too, but no one likes that fact). You see, the more you allow, the more they take. Give an inch and they take a mile.
August 21, 2011 by Alica Ravlin
When are you people that want to control everyone's livesaround you going to realize that you are giving into the government that is intent on taking all of are freedoms away.
Look in that grocery there is more chick than beek or pork or fish. Government control. It is getting to the point that you cannot even breathe any more because it is bothering some idiot that wants to control that to.
When are we going to stop trying to control everything in every ones life. Wake Up you are doing exactly what this government wants you to do. Remember the Patriot Act on 2001 that allow the police or FBI or any government agency to enter your home at any time because that THINK you have commited a crime. No search warrant is required.
Keep up try to control everything around you and pretty soon you willnot be able to live.
September 21, 2011 by inxy
Smoking is legal. If you do not like it, move to a smoke free area. It is your choice what you do in your house, but my choice what I do in my house. I am offended because you do not smoke. So start smoking.
October 17, 2011 by bev
uh..what you said isnt true.there are lots of ppl that got cancer that have never smoked or allowed themselves to be around seconhand smoke.I think a lotof ppl like you are brainwashed.SORRY..
October 21, 2011 by burythemdeeply
You're right my friend, but it does not help us to be critical of smokers. Look, anyone who would put a cancer stick in his or her mouth and chock to death, will not have the good sense to listen to good advice from anyone. Ask yourself, how can anyone live so long and become so dumb? Is there a disability in learning in this country?
October 28, 2011 by Theoldtrooper
How wise! I suppose the dead kids full of alcohol in burning autos are different. Or the cokeheads stealing and killing others. Alcohol and drugs are responsible for far more deaths than cigarette smoke ever will. I am 87, an amputee with many other problems. I have smoked since I was 15 - when I entered the US Army to fight for freedom of the American people. I still smoke cigars and drink whiskey, and will outlive some of you prudes out there!
November 26, 2011 by Diane Geiger
I am a smoker and I agree with you. I do not expose others to my smoke. second hand smoke is harmful to others. But this smoking in your own home thing being outlawed is scary because of what might come next in terms of governmental control. It doesn't hurt anyone else to smoke in one's own home. It doesn't move through walls ! What's the deal ? Can you explain to me how the person next door is effected ? I don't get it.
January 26, 2010 by Jeanette Nagy
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June 9, 2010 by Valerie
I agree so much with you....especially the Global Warming crapola! Have you seen Conspiracy Theory with Jesse Ventura? Makes you really think about things. I live on the Gulf Coast and until about 10 years ago never heard the term "El Nino or El Nina" for causing bad weather! Now, if the government can't even control illegal immigration, how are they going to police anyones smoking habits? And congrats to California, Arnold and Boxer is on their way OUT!
July 31, 2010 by Joan H. Bush
I do NOT believe government should be allowed to dictate what I can or cannot do in my own home as long as the action itself is not illegal(such as growing pot in my kitchen). I smoked for 67 years and did so outsside my apartment for about 8 of those years. My health has dictated my quitting (which I have done and switched to electronic cigarettes) but I do not believe I (OR ANYONE ELSE) has the right to tell you what you can/cannot do in your own home. The only restriction I have seen that makes sense is the LANDLORD WHO WILL NOT RENT TO A SMOKER. His property, his rules.
April 9, 2010 by Reg Mann
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August 26, 2011 by Charles Hopper
Regg Mann, Alica Ravlin, It's not a govenment that's taking our rights away it's communisim, and the American people had better wake-up to that FACT. In 1941 the communists said they would take over this country and never have to fire a shot, "WELL WAKE-UP!"
June 21, 2010 by Fisherking
This is not about health or smoky apartments...it is hysterics and It is my sincerest hope that every smoke nazi gets cancer and dies anyway...the world will be a better place without 'em.
-FK
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July 7, 2010 by Sharon
I agree. Some people have nothing better to do with their time than try to infringe on others' freedom. Maybe they should try to find a new hobby that will broaden their intellectual horizons. That might give them something better to think about. Remember that old saying -- "misery loves company". Well, I believe that miserable people want everyone else to be miserable. It's actually a form of mental illness and they should go and see a psychiatrist. I'm tired of the mentally ill getting attention because they behave so badly are more noticed than those of us who mind our own business and have better things to do with our time than stick our nose in others' lives. It's their way of diverting attention away from the important issues at hand. As a Native American, I say anyone who doesn't like it here can go back to where they came from. Native Americans have always used tobacco and it didn't seem to bother anyone back then when they took everything away from us by force. I, too, will keep smoking and blow my smoke in anyone's face who is rude enough to make a comment about it. Why are non-smokers always placing themselves in places where smokers go and then complain? Like they're the only ones who matter. You're right. The world might be better off without them because they're weak.
July 23, 2010 by Karin Stokoe
People need to realize a couple of things. Smoking is not good for you. I think that fact has been established. For the sake of my loved ones I have started on electronic cigarettes. They are great. However, when a governmental organization steps in with the words , "We are doing this for the people's health and welfare.", look out! You are just about to be screwed. They always start out that it is what is best for us. They just don't mention that the next step they take is going to be to take more of our freedoms from us. Wake up people. It starts in one town. What happens here may determine a lot of our future!
November 2, 2010 by DUTCH
SELFISH
August 20, 2011 by jms
AMEN and thank you!!!!!!!
September 17, 2011 by wayne
well hell people have died from car crashes lets take all the cars off the road.and yeah no planes they crash and kill people oh and while your at it lets ban bad weather that destroys homes and lives if you don't like my second hand smoke stay the hell away from me
July 16, 2010 by June
wow that really sucks......this smoking ban has gone way too far.......my father smoked heavy for 60 yrs....and my mother did NOT get any second hand smoke that sickened her.....this is ridciulous.....geez, remind never to come to california!!!!
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July 21, 2010 by Richard Bentley
I live in apartment and this man smokes on and on next to my door and there is not a thing I can do my word is why can places let where you eat not to smoke and that are not to be smoking but in apartments they are not seen the same there is more then one person in it. if its not the same what you say is you do not care if someone is making someone die or become sick and then with out that law you make your medicare cost go up for you have then more become sick because of it why is that
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December 10, 2010 by ruth
get off it, the smell is not going to do a dam thing to you, as long as you are not in the room he smokes in.
August 6, 2011 by Shawn
After reading your comment, I'm thinking a smoking neighbor is the least of your problems.
August 9, 2011 by Red
Perhaps the most intelligent thing I've seen posted on this issue. It actually scared me more to see how many people are illiterate and incapable of forming sentences using correct grammar, punctuation and spelling than the threat to my freedom. Does anyone realize that our country is more likely to collapse from illiteracy than it is from second hand smoke?
August 10, 2010 by David Prescott
Preposterous. Show us the evidence, scientific evidence that secondhand smoke can penetrate wood, steel, concrete, flooring, tiling, plaster, etc. and all of that after going through the air-filter in ones central air? It's even more ridiculous because someone made the argument that it is illegal to walk around in your home with the blinds open. Yet I don't hear anyone telling everyone to watch outside their neighbors windows and make sure they don't see any nudity! Imagine if they did! Oh, and will they be allowed to ban all the fat people too next? Will it be illegal to feed your children McDonald's soon? Will you have to check in with a dietician? How are they going to enforce this? Witch hunts? Will a mere report, circumstantial and second-hand information from a neighbor be enough to get you evicted? How is that fair? Can they ban ignorant people from apartments as well please? This is all to raise money and cover people's asses. I guess times are tough huh? Prohibition all over again. If you won't ban carbon-burning automobiles, which arguably do more damage to everyone's health, why smoking for tenuous reasons? Hypocritical at best, 1933 Germany at worst.
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August 12, 2010 by Dj
It sounds like we are headed for socialism and will have no rights. This country was founded on freedom and freedom of speech. Obama isn't sticking to his word just like the other Presidents.
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August 18, 2010 by linda
what are the laws in colorado i dont mind if a person smokes but if that person keeps her or his self locked up in there apartment allday then decides to open their door to let all that smoke or cigar smell out that is what is sickining
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September 28, 2010 by Debra
But burning a book does not harm anyone. I lost both of my parents because of smoking. My dad because he smoked, he had lung cancer. My mom because of second-hand smoke, she had cancer too. They both die with-in 8 months of each other.
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October 16, 2010 by clyde stewart
i smoked for 43 years as much as 3 packs a day thru the mersy of the good lord i went cold turkey i know how hard it is to quit, to them that dont smoke why dont you quit eating sweets, drinking sodas, wine whiskey, beer all this should not be allowed in the dwelling also because it may create a problem to them next door by your loud noise,fighting,trash, bad oders ECT.
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November 14, 2010 by Larry
We are in America not Russia,if i pay rent or own my apartment or condo what gives anyone the right to take my private rights away,its a little over controlling even by California standards, i guess thats why we have so many problems with our government we the people have given them way to much power so now its starting to show,by getting into my personal space,i think there are much more important things on a bigger level than home invasion by our government.
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December 31, 2010 by moo
heil hitler to that pretty pethetic!
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February 28, 2011 by dennis brooks
I'm a ex smoker! These people are out of there minds. This is a violation of human rights.......people who like to smoke or have an addiction, our being treated like leopards of Roman times. It's a shame that in American we enact these wacked out laws that our soilders fight for and die for called ............."FREEDOM"
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August 6, 2011 by Jaci
you mean lepers?? not leopards....those are jungle cats....
August 5, 2011 by Martin
It's already hear in the good ole USA. Kurt Vonnegut's Slaughterhouse Five has been banned along with other books in a school's curriculum in Missouri for it's alleged "shocking material". This country sorely needs to take a second look at all of its tyrannical laws which includes cigarette smoking and the failed War on Drugs.
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August 18, 2011 by JKeczan
I completely agree with this law. Second hand smoke is just as dangerous as first hand. I will definitely support this law if it comes to my town.
My father is a smoker and he even goes outside to smoke in his own house, every day of the year.
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September 26, 2011 by Bob
If it also includes marijuana, with the same penalty, then maybe yes.
August 25, 2011 by jmd
There are no questions about the negative consequences of smoking on both the smoker and those directly exposed to second-hand cigarette smoke. Many are concerned that laws and regulations aimed at smoking will trickle down to the same for other bad habits, like overeating. My concern is that they won't. As a hospital employee who is witness to many patients suffering from respiratory and cardiac complications from long-term tobacco use, I realize that smoking is definitely a major concern in our society. However, when I walk the halls of the hospital, I sometimes do a quick calculation in my mind as to the high percentage of people who are obese. Many of the patients that I deal with in my position are there due to obesity. Many of these patients' family members are just earlier versions of the patients themselves. And, just as evident, a high percentage of the employees who walk these halls are obese. I will concede my right to damage my well-being with tobacco smoke when that right includes other detrimental habits and lifestyles, including overeating. I will concede my right to damage my well-being with tobacco smoke when that right includes other detrimental habits and lifestyles, including overeating. I believe that "junk food," and "fast food" items should carry health warnings as tobacco products are required to. Children and associates of the morbidly obese should be protected from "second hand sandwiches," as the laws and regulations attempt to protect them from contaminated air. If this seems to be an extreme statement, seek the statistics announced last year about the number of deaths from obesity surpassing the number from tobacco use.
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August 27, 2011 by Jyoti Patel
Day by day our freedom to do what we want has been eroded. Are we turning into a police state?
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September 1, 2011 by Gregg
Second hand smoke is life threatening. People have died from second hand smoke.
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September 5, 2011 by terry imholt
Never never give up your rights.
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September 8, 2011 by Gabe
Yes, it should be illegal. while we are at it, let's outlaw the following: - eating meatballs on Wednesday - wearing black T-shirts and hats with non-approved logo's - i don't know...maybe, clipping nails between 8:00 AM and 12:00 PM on Sundays - one should be at some sort of church then (not beeing there should be illegal as well)
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October 21, 2011 by Su
I agree with Red! It's funny, almost all of the people posting here are smokers. They are showing us that their intelligence level at a whole is very low.
Really? Someone really wrote "her or his self" and "sickining"?
I find it really hard to listen to your side of the argument if you can't properly express yourself.
September 19, 2011 by sam
Yes it Originated in NAZI germany by the Other HIPOCRITE HITLER...He was the Nazi that started it all and CONDONED BOOZE like all the rest of the IDIOTS in the USA
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September 23, 2011 by Shirley Walser
in answer to the headline question---- absolutely not! FREEDOM means just that, freedom, especially in your own home. Some people are not happy unless they are on a "cause" that builds up their own ego, therefore they are telling others how to live. Live and let live that is the answer to a lot of problems. Some people just like to complain because they live in an apt. and and can't get the landlords to paint and fix it up so ...there you go.....Come to my house and if something is said about my smoking I will do you as I did one lady who was uninvited to start with, shown the door and never let in again. Although she did return trying to preach a crazy religion to me. Thanks I know God and don't need her nor anyone else trying to tell a greatgrandmother what to do.
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October 1, 2011 by Victor Wimsett
No way should any Government have the right to tell anyone what they can do in the privacy of their home or apartment. Is the U. S. A. becomming a Communist country country???
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October 2, 2011 by Patrick
They have no right to limit what one can do in one's own home. The current U.S. Gov't. has become a form of NAZIISM, not exactly led by an "Arian" this time! We need to do something to end it!
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October 13, 2011 by Kathy
When these fool idiots start paying my damn bills then you can tell me what i can do in my house. pay my rent otherwise kick rocks and die you nosey control freaks.
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October 18, 2011 by Becky
Clearly banning smoking in your own home is absurd, as are most of the public smoking bans. People should be allowed to smoke however much they want within reason, and more buildings, businesses, restaurants, etc should be permitted to have "smoking sections" for their business.
I used to only smoke one and a half to maybe two packs a day, but when my former employer banned smoking during work hours, I couldnt take the smoke breaks I needed, so I had to get a different job and start working from home on the internets. Now I smoke at least three packs a day, almost four, because my environment promotes it. As weird as it sounds, the proliferation of public smoking bans have actually caused me to chain smoke more, as I'm left alone in my trailer basically smoking the days away.
October 23, 2011 by Breeze
Regulating smoking is not just regulating behavior, it is banning a known carcinogen which the State of CA has officially classified as an "airborne toxic substance." Second-hand tobacco smoke is not merely an annoyance like cooking odors. It is a health hazard well-established to cause disease and death. It is illegal to fire a gun in your apartment because the bullet poses threat to your neighbors. So does your cigarette smoke when it permeates into adjacent apartments!
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October 28, 2011 by bobby hicks
The U.S. Government has their noses stuck so far up other countries asses and the American public are the ones who are suffering.
We people the American voters, have lost all control of Washington to all of the crooks now in office. If you think that for one second that your vote counts, then think again, it does not count for anything.
The people in Belmont or anywhere else for that matter should be allowed to do whatever they please in their own homes without fear of being arrested and then thrown out into the streets because someone doesn't like second hand smoke.
I woke up in the united states of America, but I'm not sure if this country is leaning more towards communism and adopting the rules of other communist countries.
We are indeed living in an Orwellian society, because brother is really really watching you. You might not realize it, but the thought Police are listening to your every word, and are watching your every move.
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November 7, 2011 by Omaha smoker
How many rights and freedoms are going to be taken away from us before we are completely a communist country?
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November 12, 2011 by jolie
really...you are equating burning books with a known cancer causing substance? when you or someone you know chooses to smoke and they do so in a manner that can potentially cause someone else cancer - that is a bit different from burning books.
I have a neighbor that chooses to smoke in the stairwell of out building. They can't smoke in their apt. because of the second hand smoke. The smoke does drift up to our apts. and it is gross and is second hand smoke of which, science has shown does cause cancer. THe person has been told to GO OUTSIDE but it's raining, it's snowing, its hot, its cold, its windy - whatever - they still smoke in the stairway. Because smoke is dangerous to everyone's health, the willful smoking and thus harming other's health should be fined. People, in general will not make a moral choice to do right by others, and often causing a displeasure greater than the benefit is what motivates people to stop negative behaviour. MOst people do not have a moral compass that guides them to make choices that benefit others. so, we have the law to be the conscience. That is the crux of the issue.
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December 3, 2011 by SingingHawk
George Orwells 1984 is fast becoming a reality. Orwell’s 1984 opens in London, now a part of the country Oceania. The whole globe is divided into three countries, Oceania, Eurasia and Eastasia all perpetually at war with each other. The leading protagonist Winston Smith enters his flat in the dingy building ironically named Victory Mansions and is immediately conscious of the poster of “Big Brother” with the inscription “Big Brother is Watching You.” The “Party” has taken over all aspects of life and is intent on eradicating individuality. Winston is painfully aware of the telescreen, which is both a receiver and transmitter at the same time. It incessantly relays messages from the Party and simultaneously allows the dreaded “thought police” to tune into the activities of any individual at any given time.
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March 24, 2009 by Serenity
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April 10, 2009 by rock
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December 31, 2009 by Amy
January 15, 2011 by Regina Thomas
Really??? You think the government should have the power to "fix this mess" of smokers?? Perhaps they can "fix" rude and obnoxious people as well with mandatory brain surgery.
August 6, 2011 by shawn
What! Using your logic, the government should step in and outlaw anything that is unhealthy or could cause you to die before your time? Hmm.. maybe outlaw fast food, or alcohol, or fatty snacks or even krispy creme donuts! All are bad for your health and will shorten your life if you consume enough of it. Should these and other similar products be outlawed as well?
May 22, 2009 by Eric Henry
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June 16, 2009 by JR
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June 9, 2010 by Valerie
Serenity, you are so funny! But so right! They will not stop selling cigarettes because of the high taxes on them, and the government can't control their spending, so keep selling them! This law is as stupid as the one that made McDonalds take the toy out of the happy meal! Kids are still going to eat the freaking happy meal, toy or not! Back in prohibition days, alcohol was illegal and it didn't stop anyone that wanted to drink from drinking! If they were to outlaw anything, it should be alcohol. It sure kills alot more people a year than cigarettes! And it also kills alot more innocent people than cigarettes!
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March 15, 2011 by jan
My mother never smoked a cigarette in her life and didn't allow anyone to smoke in her house. she had heart trouble, diabetes and high blood pressure. I am 65 and smoke everyday. I take no meds and feel fine. Now get the picture. I don't like looking at fat people but they have the right to be fat. You say they don't pose a danger to you how about a 300 lb man falling on you. How are you going to like it if you're overweight that you can't order a hamburger or steak you must eat a salad.
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September 21, 2011 by maddie
i have a problem with poor venilation more power too you who smoke , smoke that ciggareete or bong or crack pipe just keep your smoke to yourself my apt is my sanctuary , my grandaughter does not need to breath marajuana smoke i t stinks
March 26, 2009 by sue
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March 27, 2009 by fred
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March 30, 2009 by Ken
November 2, 2010 by RON
NO ONE BUT NO ONE HAS EVER PROVED SECOND HAND SMOKE HAS EVER HARMED ANYONE!!!
March 31, 2009 by wkj
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April 17, 2009 by Barb
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April 22, 2009 by kate montclair
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May 11, 2009 by THERESA CAVES
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June 16, 2009 by JR
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September 6, 2011 by Gloria
Beg to differ, second had smoke is just govt propoganda, so is global warming. People believe it. Smoking does harm the smoker but second hand smoke is harmless just irritating. Don't believe everything that's put out there.
July 2, 2009 by Rachel
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August 7, 2009 by Jessi
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October 14, 2009 by joe slick
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July 20, 2010 by Cari Geldreich
Your statement: We pay higher taxes for something we enjoy doing. If they don't like it - tough. So dose this mean if you enjoying killing people it's ok because you are paying more in taxes? This is really sick. Cigarettes are a drug and drug users will do what ever it takes to get their drug. They don't care about anyone even themselves. This is evident in your statement. Its more important for drug users to get their drug than to care about the health, safety, and welfare of everyone around them. I suffer every day at work and in my own home because smokers think its ok to smoke because they are outside. Well all that outside air comes right into my work and my home. You want to belly ache about your right to smoke, well what about my right to clean air? What about my right to not have to suffer everyday from other peoples cigarette smoke? Our laws are getting stricter on factory pollution too. Are you going to defend factories too and say that they have the right to pollute the air? This is not about taking away a persons freedoms, it's about looking out for peoples health. Why don't all of you smokers do yourselves a favor and go to an Asthma clinic and light up a cigarette next to a child that is there for asthma and see for yourself how your actions make another person suffer and ask yourself if what you are doing is really ok. And I just want to say touché to Joe Slick. I loved what you said at the end.
September 10, 2010 by Smoking Kills
You took the words out of my mouth. I used to live with a smoker who couldn't stand someone else's second-hand smoke. He would wave his hand to push the smoke cloud away when walking through one - yet he smoked! Smokers don't realize that other people smell it 10 times worse than they do. They are not on the receiving end of it! It drifts around in a string of death, entering other people's homes. It doesn't just dissipate and disappear into the air - it travels in trails for a long time and then it enters my home where it makes my eyes burn and gives me bad headaches. I wish there was a law that would make smokers have to keep and get rid of their own smoke. I would get in trouble if I just dumped my garbage into someone else's yard, yet they can spew their toxic cigarette smoke into my yard, house, lungs. Ridiculous! Make them be responsible for it.
This smoking situation is making me mad. It makes me want to take my radio and turn it up really loud and point it at their house whenever they smoke. Yet, I would be the one to get into trouble for just annoying someone while they are TRYING TO KILL ME AND MY FAMILY. I have a little boy who I try to protect from carcinogens entering his body to fester and become cancer someday. Why should I have to move just because of my ignorant tool of a neighbor? Yes, I said tool. Smokers are tools of the tobacco industry who are leaching your money and your very life. They pump chemicals into tobacco to keep you hooked. Cigarettes should be considered habit-forming drugs and made illegal. Yet, smokers keep rewarding those bastards by continually buying their d**n cigarettes! How stupid is that?
In 1993, the Supreme Court decided that an inmate could sue a prison claiming that exposure to his cellmate’s secondhand smoke could constitute cruel and unusual punishment. Wow, wish I could sue!! Why don't I have the same rights as criminals? After all, I also am being punished for living next door to a loser!
For all you ignorant smokers who don't think smoking is dangerous, check this out: http://www.thetruth.com/facts/ Be amazed and want to quit after getting the shocking info.
August 6, 2011 by shawn
Well Joe Slick..I got news for you. There's alot more harmful stuff in the air then the second hand smoke drifting into your window. How about that smog problem? that can't be good for you either so therefor we should outlaw vehicles. Maybe utility companies shouldn't be allowed to burn fossil fuels to provide you with electricity? Perhaps the burning of anything should be illegal, after all that smoke might kill you too!
March 27, 2009 by Kip Pancake
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June 16, 2009 by JR
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August 17, 2010 by Carol
So what about the air pollution that is all around you? What are you doing about that? About the bus fumes you inhale on every street corner (MUCH worse than second hand smoke, by the way). Most don't give a damn about that, but if they get a whiff of second hand smoke from a cigarette, all hell breaks loose.
December 18, 2011 by sherri kirkland
Of course you have scientific evidence that proves this is what caused your health problems. If so it would be the first in our history that a person got sick because of what someone did in another dwelling.
February 9, 2010 by Bob
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June 26, 2010 by Sharon Langer
"Allergies" are the most creative defense I have yet seen for "anti-smoking" brigades.Now that you have wiped out smoking in 95% hotel rooms, all airplanes, and most airports and restaurants, you are now going into people's homes, cars and the great outdoors to institute your "right thinking". This is not communisism, it is the tryanny of the majority. My grandmother was a member of the WCTL. I never liked her. I can only hope that we will now get underground cigarette trafficking. Recent legislation is not about our health, it is designed to give States more tax money. It passed because so many of you like it...smokers are easy targets for our legislators while they fail to deal with the real problems..Iraq, Afganistan,recession,energy problems,etc. So...feel happy all of you "allergic" folks.You will stamp out smoking, but what have you done about real issues?
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July 2, 2010 by Ty
That is exactly the point, my wife is allergic to grasses, trees and flowers....that give me the right to demand that the entire community be paved over?
March 27, 2009 by jredheadgirl
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April 25, 2009 by John Severns
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June 1, 2009 by Jeffrey Rosen
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March 29, 2009 by Michelle
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June 16, 2009 by mamiet hall
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August 11, 2011 by Nurse40
People die from drinking too much, from being overweight, from car accidents due to bad drivers. Do you want the Govt. to curtail our alcohol? what we eat? How we drive? what else do you want the Govt. to get their crubby little fingers in? Come on, we have too much Govt now. The people should be given the choice. Yes, smoking is bad for you. I started when I was 8 and am now paying for it with Pulmonary fibrosis. This doesn't give the Govt the right to interfere with our lives. Maybe more education would help those who still like to smoke. It was extremly difficult for me to quit, but I knew it was killing me. Plus, they got so expensive, I could no longer afford them. Good luck to all of you smokers. Please try to quit, but keep out Govt. where it belongs, OUT OF OUR LIVES.
March 22, 2010 by Mandy Allison Williams
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March 30, 2009 by PATSY LUDWIG
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December 8, 2009 by Brandon Smith
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August 6, 2011 by Jaci
You aren't disturbing anyone? You're disturbing EVERYONE who does not enjoy breathing your disgusting smoke. I have the right to clean air as much as you do. You don't see me blowing pollution in your face, don't do it in mine.
October 21, 2011 by burythemdeeply
"leave us smokers alone!" You got a lot of nerve, asking us to leave you alone when you are the one spreading those deadly chemicals that kill 4000 people a year! Are you the walking dead or what?
December 9, 2009 by Brandon Smith
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April 25, 2010 by Valerie
I agree if the government is going to tell me I can't smoke in my own home they can pay all my bills too. I would feel the same way if I owned a business. I pay the taxes I pay the insurance I pay all the bill so who are you to tell me the people I will cater to. Just post a sign smokers welcome and if you don't like it don't go in period. Just like I do now. If the place says no smoking I'm fine with that I DON"T GO IN and spend my money.
March 30, 2009 by debbie corbin
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December 30, 2010 by Leona
Furthermore, the gov. really does not want us to stop, why well they have their hands in the big pharm companies and what about their kick back on the so called legal drugs they give sick people that in all honesty makes them sicker and more dependent. I will do what I want in the walls of my house, screw them. Yes we are losing our rights as free people one law at a time, so when do we begin fighting back and take back our rights??? Of the people by the people, it does not say by the government by the government. I think any and all laws, rights issues should all go to the vote of the people not congress. they are not my voice so why do they think they know how and what I think. time for a change peeps
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March 31, 2009 by Wayne Travis
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March 31, 2009 by Charles H. Bachman Jr.
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August 14, 2009 by Larra Storey
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December 10, 2010 by wanda
preach it buddy, what you are saying is sooooooo True. Amen
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February 7, 2011 by Paul
Well my friend i must agree with all of your statement, not because i am lack in ablity to formalate my own thoughts, but because you are right in your thinking. It is time for us to take back the rights of Americans, and let the Government know that enough is enough, and we are feed up with it. Why dont they go after alcohol and real drug. Oh, sorry they are now getting to the point where they are telling us what we can or cant eat, and demanding that food suppliers start cutting this and that. Come on people wake up before its too late. Today smokers rights, tomorrow who knows what rights we lose. Thank You
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September 2, 2011 by John
You had me until the rediculous and ignorant comparison to banning Gays.
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October 21, 2011 by Su
REALLY? You really just said that gay people WANT to be gay and they should be taxed?
Wow.
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March 31, 2009 by michael
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March 22, 2011 by ani
DEFINITELY NOT DEFINITELY NOT
What goes on behind closed doors is nobody else's business even in apartments, hotels and motels. BUTT OUT. When you pay for accommodations you expect to be able to do what you want within reason. Oh, it's OK to smoke pot and other dangerous drugs, right? WRONG>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
What is wrong with society? don't they have more important subjects to work on. like taxes. education, starving seniors,etc? GET A LIFE................
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August 19, 2011 by Civil Freedoms
WHAT THE HECK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I DID NOT WAKE UP IN CHINA NOR RUSSIA!!! DO THESE PEOPLE UNDERSTAND WHAT THE NATIVE AMERICANS AND COLONIALIST MADE A LIVING ON. TOBACCO!!! WHAT BECAME THE WAY OF LIFE AND LIVING IS NOW BEING DESTROYED. WHO EVER IS BEHIND TAKING THIS FREEDOM AWAY SHOULD GO LIVE IN A THIRD WORLD COUNTRY FOR A YEAR AND SEE WHICH ONE HE OR SHE LIKES BEST. (AMERICA OR THE OTHER PLACE) BY THE WAY WHAT EVER THIRD WORLD COUNTRY THEY HAVE TO LIVE IN THEY HAVE TO ABIDE BY THEIR LAWS TOO. GET A LIFE I AM SURE THAT ON YOUR ANCESTORS SMOKED AND FOUGHT THAT FREEDOM TOO.
March 31, 2009 by maxwood
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