The New Orleans City Council voted unanimously to ban smoking in New Orleans bars, casinos and other named places. This writer believes it was a good common sense vote for the public good and a step in a healthier environment. My commentary titled, "Smoking Bans For Louisiana Casinos and Bars" dated 6/4/09 concerning the subject matter outlined my position on smoking.
At present there is a state wide ban on smoking in restaurants which I believe most people would agree has made for a better atmosphere while dining. People have even said the food taste better. Smokers feel like they have the right to smoke and I would point out that smoking bans have been in effect before health problems were taking into consideration over 50 years ago in movie theaters, in places of worship and some private places, but smokers still go to those places and have adjusted.
There are smoking ban laws on the books with in a certain distance from public buildings. I think most will agree that second hand smoke is more dangerous to one's health in a closed environment like a casino or bar than an open area. This writer travels to a non smoking casino on the Mississippi gulf coast rather than be exposed to the smoke in Louisiana casino's.
Cities and states are moving to a greener and healthier environment across the country and New Orleans should join the parade. Smokers can continue to smoke, they will just have to do what they do when they go to a movie, refrain from smoking for a couple of hours. Habits are hard to break but never fatal.
This commentary written by Joe Lorio
