Statistics on Smoking

As a restaurant owner, I am particularly disturbed by Braude’s proposal, which calls for a total ban on smoking in restaurants.

This zero-tolerance proposal is no small threat to individual freedom as we know it today. If Braude’s proposal is voted in, I believe it will only be a matter of time until regulations are enacted to further limit our personal freedom and choices.

If we do not stand firm and say no to these proposals being jammed down our throats, it is not inconceivable that in a matter of time other Draconian proposals will be forwarded to ban alcoholic beverages, for example, or foods which are deemed to be cholesterol rich.

There is also the matter of enforcement. Will our maitre d’ be required to act as police with longtime customers as potential violators? Also, as for these longtime customers, will they not simply go to restaurants that will respond to their preferences?

This no-smoking proposal is merely an attempt to dictate America’s health habits. We must guard against an overabundance of interference by the government in our daily lives. It is my view that designated nonsmoking sections coupled with an adequate air-circulating system will ensure the rights of both smokers and nonsmokers. An outright ban on smoking in restaurants denies the public freedom of choice.

JIMMY MURPHY

Beverly Hills