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Statewide ban makes more sense

As proposed to happen with the new DFL majority in the Legislature, a statewide smoking ban in public indoor places, specifically bars and restaurants, makes a lot of sense.

The bottom line is, many public indoor places, from offices to airplanes, have banned smoking.

While it is understood that smoking is an addiction for many and that tobacco remains a legal product, it has been proven that second-hand smoke is harmful, and those who do not choose to smoke, such as restaurant employees or non-smoking patrons, should not be forced to be subjected to it.

We sympathize with bar and restaurant owners who rely on smokers to support their business. We would hope that smokers would not, in essence, punish those businesses by not patronizing them if the ban becomes a reality.

We also understand that businesses in communities that border states without smoking bans, such as Breckenridge, Moorhead and East Grand Forks, might be particularly hurt, which is why Gov. Tim Pawlenty ought to work with governors of neighboring states to pass similar bans.

However, for the health of all residents, a statewide smoking ban seems appropriate.