YOUr VIEW
Smoking ordinance shouldn’t allow exceptions at all
To the editor:
I was upset to read about the concessions the county commissioners are considering making for one cigar shop owner who founded his business here knowing we have been a smoke-free county for some time (“Local cigar shop asks for exception to ban,” Saturday-Monday, Aug. 17-19, Page A1). In the same day’s newspaper, there was a great story about the 10-year anniversary of Hancock County’s smoke-free air law (“Clearing the air,” Page A1). I urge the commissioners to read it. I was an attendee of this celebration. It is unfortunate that not one of our county commissioners attended this celebration to hear firsthand the praise and appreciation that was given in support of our current indoor smoke-free air law. I am a Hancock County resident, and I am very proud of the law as it stands. It shows our commitment to public health. I would oppose any changes to the law.
The Hancock County smoke-free air law, one of the strongest in the state and a model for other communities, should not be changed in any way. It is having exactly the effect that was intended: smoking rates continue to decline, and the county’s health ranking continues to rise, to the point that we’re now in the top-five healthiest counties in Indiana. The commissioners should not mess with a good thing.
Hancock County has been a great example to the rest of the state that public health is important. Many communities talk about public health, but for the past 10 years since passing the indoor smoke-free air law, Hancock County has talked the talk and walked the walk. It was also a great (and rare) example of elected officials doing the right thing. Starting to allow exemptions and in the process weakening the law would be like opening Pandora’s Box. It never stops at one exemption. If they grant special treatment to this one business, it won’t be the end of it. One business owner doesn’t trump the interests of an entire community. I ask the commissioners to keep the law intact. I am certain I’m not alone in this.
Cindy Cable
Greenfield
