Spring Break
Proposed smoking ban could affect city bars
Courtney Teague-Carter
Issue date: 2/13/08 Section: News
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"What a jerk," Bob Sweet, owner of the Downstairs Sports Bar and Grill, said of Gov. Doyle. "I think it's just a matter of taking more privileges away from those who smoke. It's a freedom and I don't think the government has the right to take it away."
Doyle proposed a smoking ban in all public buildings, workplaces, restaurants and bars in January 2007 in an effort to make Wisconsin smoke-free. In addition to the ban he proposed a hike in cigarette taxes from 77 cents per pack to $1.25.
"I think the proposed ban is very good," George Christon, owner of Novak's Restaurant and Gus' Pizza, said. "I don't mind. With a ratio of nine to one non-smokers to smokers I don't think the customers mind either."
Lawmakers approved the $1 tax increase, which brought the cigarette tax to $1.77 on Jan. 1, 2008. Doyle said he believes raising the cost of cigarettes and making it harder to light up in different places will save lives and cut healthcare costs.
The increased sales tax will save more than $2 billion in smoking-related health cost and possibly cause 42,500 current adult smokers to quit, according to a recent study by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
Doyle's proposals are aimed at not only making current and prospective smokers healthier, but it addresses the dangerous effects of second-hand smoke.
"There's no question second-hand smoke is injurious," Judy Lembrich, a registered nurse for the University Health and Counseling Services, said. "Even short exposure like in a restaurant can cause decreased blood flow. Almost any of the problems associated with smoking can affect those in contact with the smoke."
Viewing Comments 1 - 5 of 7
Dave Wilcox
posted 2/13/08 @ 11:11 AM CST
"What a jerk," Bob Sweet, owner of the Downstairs Sports Bar and Grill, said of Gov. Doyle.
Well, how very enlightening, Mr. Sweet. It's pretty much a sign that you can't make a good argument when that's your opening line. (Continued…)
Bill Hannegan
posted 2/13/08 @ 6:01 PM CST
This smoking ban has been pushed using so much junk science and bad information, it won't be a valid law when it passes. The Wisconsin ban should get the same respect the Ohio ban is now getting:
http://www. (Continued…)
Joey
posted 2/14/08 @ 7:11 AM CST
Mr. Wilcox,
Obviously, the writer of this article leans strongly "pro-ban". If you've ever been interviewed by the press, you know that they will take whatever they want from your interview. (Continued…)
TJ
posted 2/14/08 @ 2:15 PM CST
Give it up, pro-smoking advocates. Your days are numbered.
I can't find logic in the pro-smoker argument that alleges the lack of smoke-free establishments proves there isn't a demand for said establishments. (Continued…)
Marc VG
posted 2/14/08 @ 8:31 PM CST
I don't enjoy someone smoking next to me, but I respect the freedom that person has to smoke and even more, the freedom the business owner has to make the decision if smoking will be allowed in his establishment or not. (Continued…)
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