TO THE EDITOR:

Most Americans support the position of the ECM Editorial Board with respect to a smoking ban. The position of the staff reporter of the Post Review is more about political ideology than about the common good. He views global warming, the war in Iraq and other issues the same way.

There may be danger in big government and big business, but there is a very real threat from secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke has been classified by the EPA as a known cause of cancer in humans. Secondhand smoke exposure causes disease and premature death in children and adults who do not smoke. Besides, workplace productivity has increased and absenteeism has decreased in smoke free environments, especially among smokers.

Currently 14 states have passed strong smoke-free air laws. They are among the healthiest states in our nation. This is a serious public health issue that should be addressed by all levels of government and not be subject to the whim of ideologues and a few bar and restaurant owners. As long as it is a public place, the public should be assured that the air they breathe is not filled with secondhand smoke that may lead to their premature death. Yes, I can chose not to go into such establishments, but those that work there have no choice. It is no different than other laws that protect us from harm, it is common sense for the common good.

Politicians that fail to act are not acting in the public interest or for the common good.

Robert G. Walz
North Branch

Comment from Amy Oehlers, 3/30/07

Couldn't disagree more. I don't think our Founding Fathers created our form of Government as a means to "control" the people. America is still a FREE country. Tobacco is a legal substance; therefore, adults are free to smoke or not to smoke, as well as being free to choose whether to enter into a smoking establishment or not, and as well as choosing to take employment in a location where smoking is or is not allowed. Since when should an employer change his operations to meet the desires of his employees.... kind of reminds me of a recent issue about an employee refusing to sell pork (crazy). With too much Government control on our personal lives.... our lives won't be so personal and freedom for Americans will slowly diminish. I don't support that! Let Government run government and leave the personal lifestyle choices where they belong, in an individuals own hands.