Editorial: Statewide smoking ban should be on Legislature's list

Publication Date: 2007-01-10

• Publication:Appleton (WI) Post-Crescent

It's time for the state Legislature to support a statewide smoking ban. With a new legislative session starting, it's a great opportunity for Wisconsin to join the growing number of states that prohibit smoking in all workplaces, including bars and restaurants.

While it should be of vital interest throughout the state, it's of particular interest here in Appleton, which has had a city-wide ban for the last 18 months that has made it an island among neighbors with weaker or no smoking bans.

Smoking ban opponents in Appleton have talked about the need for a level playing field.

This is it...

The negative health effects of secondhand smoke have been established. Public opinion continues to head in the right direction.

The state Legislature could do a world of good for its constituents if it takes on the issue of a statewide smoking ban, gets it passed and sends it to Gov. Jim Doyle to sign into law.

The time is right.