State Status
No Preemption
News Summary
Smoking ban hits speed bump
Publication Date: 2006-09-21
- Author:Editorial Staff
- Publication:Augusta Chronicle
The council's Judicial and Public Safety Committee voted to table the ban until it sees how a similar ordinance passed in Sullivan's Island fares in court. It's being challenged on grounds that South Carolina state law prevents localities from passing smoking restriction laws...
County Councilwoman LaWana McKenzie also makes a good point, particularly if the Sullivan's Island ban is struck down - and perhaps even if it isn't: Urge state lawmakers to repeal any law that prevents counties or cities from regulating the use of tobacco products. It's ludicrous for the state to forbid localities from improving the quality of their air and health.