After a very short lifespan and amidst all of the buzz on both sides of the issue, the statewide smoking ban banning smoking in all public places except bars, casinos, private clubs, tobacco shops and nursing homes–is now dead in the Indiana House; that is, at least for now. See Northwest Indiana Times article,“Senate Leader Declares Smoking Ban Dead for Year” 18 Apr. 2011.
The Article suggests that this may be due to the American Cancer Society taking an absolutist position of no compromise, opposing any and all exceptions to the Bill. The influence wielded by the American Cancer Society is considerable in Indianapolis, indeed, but perhaps 1) the issue is not quite ripe enough for review, 2) it may not be as popular as proponents claim, and 3) the American Cancer Society should perhaps approach its agenda by making baby steps rather than no progress at all.
Lobbyists should all take heed to this lesson: sometimes a “win” consists of many field goals instead of a single touchdown.
Either way, it seems that Hoosiers are pumped up on both sides of the issue. Opponents of the measure insist that smoking is a liberty that should inherently be free from government intrusion and regulation. They believe that if the will of the people is strong enough, pure economics will encourage businesses to adopt policies that will maximize profits. After all, tobacco is older than the Republic itself, and had a huge role in the foundation of our economy. Our young Nation may not have made it through its infancy without this key cash crop, or it may have looked much different today, at any rate.
Eighteenth Century history, however, isn’t a very good argument for defeating the health concerns and liberties of those who wish not to smoke, and wish to be free from tobacco smoke in public places. As a nonsmoker, I see both sides of the issue. Both sides have arguments definitely worth merit. Perhaps this is why the Indiana General Assembly is having such a difficult time with it.
The City of Valparaiso is ahead of–or behind–the power curve, depending how you look at it. Here in Valpo, smoking is banned in all public places except for bars who do not admit persons under the age of twenty one (21).