Lenexa, Kansas Passes Anti-Smoking Law !!!!!

I prefer more stringent enforcement of the DUI laws especially since I live within 1/2 mile of 4 bars.

The choices that these folks make affects me when I am in my home, in my yard or driving up to the store. I don't have a choice as to when I am around someone who makes the choice to be intoxicated.

Someone smoking on the other hand.... I do have that choice. I can avoid that particular restaurant or bar (I don't drink so this is a non-issue), I can sit away from someone who is smoking. I can opt to not work in a smoking environment.

We all have the freedom of choice and if someone goes to a smoking establishment, this is their decision, they will suffer whatever consequences occur because of it but if I am sitting in my home and a drunk smashes into my home I have lost that freedom of choice.... I have passed it off into the hands of a stranger and law enforcement.

Below is a summary of the Lenexa, Kansas anti-smoking law:

"City Council passes law to protect public health
Lenexa’s smoking ordinance goes into effect Jan. 2, 2008

After nearly two years of discussion and study, the City Council passed a smoking ordinance to protect the public by minimizing health risks associated with second-hand smoking.

The new law bans smoking in all enclosed public places and places of employment in the city, including restaurants, bars, and clubs. The law also prohibits smoking within 10 feet of a public building’s entrance. Exceptions are outdoor dining areas and tobacco shops. The law does not regulate private homes except those that operate daycares and health care facilities. The law goes into effect on Jan. 2, 2008, to provide business owners and employers time to prepare.

The City Council gathered input from members of the community and took into consideration a study that measured the possible impact of smoking restrictions at restaurants and bars in Johnson County. According to the study, which was commissioned by Johnson County last year, 80 percent of those surveyed said they typically request “non smoking” seating at restaurants; and 35 percent said they would eat at full-service restaurants more often in Johnson County if smoking restrictions were implemented.

During the period of study and discussion, the council also heard overwhelming evidence regarding the dangers of second hand smoke."