Steve Rodich – 1/31/07

This page was last updated on February 1, 2007.

Smokers vs. nonsmokers; Steve Rodich; Beaver County Times; January 31, 2007.

Below is a detailed critique of the subject letter.

“The many letters and opinions offered relative to the smoking issue reaffirm the fact that this issue and debate has no conclusion other than legislation.”

[RWC] Ah, written like a true liberal. Don’t allow the property owner to decide.

“Each letter writer expressed, with conviction and compassion, their “rights.” Smokers feel they have a “right” to smoke anytime and anywhere they choose.

“Nonsmokers feel their health and well being are jeopardized by second-hand smoke as well as the offensive smell that emanates and clings to their body and clothing.”

[RWC] Can we expect a letter from Mr. Rodich advocating legislation against smelly people who don’t bathe and men/women who overdo their aftershave/perfume?

“Allegheny County adopted legislation banning smoking in work places and public facilities such as restaurants and bars.

“This cannot be done piecemeal, county by county. It is time for our state lawmakers to address the issue statewide. That way, no business is adversely affected. The law would be applied equally to all establishments. Fifteen states have laws that prohibit smoking in bars and restaurants.

“There is absolutely no dispute regarding the dangers of smoking. In the past, lawmakers have passed seat-belt legislation as a safety issue. Refusal to wear a seat belt has no affect on others, yet it’s a violation of the law.”

[RWC] There may be “absolutely no dispute regarding the dangers of smoking,” but that’s not the case for so-called “secondhand smoking.” Regardless, avoiding secondhand smoke is very easy even without government interference.

“They also passed, and later repealed helmet legislation for bikers. That, too, was for the safety and well being of the individual.”

[RWC] This is an example of the “slippery slope.” Mr. Rodich argument is essentially, “we did it before, so it’s OK to do it again.”

While I think a person is an idiot for not wearing a seatbelt or a helmet while riding a motorcycle, I believe it’s wrong to make doing so illegal for adults.

“The time has come for legislation to protect the general population and individuals who work and are subjected to second-hand smoke.

“I do not deny anyone’s “right” to smoke. However, when their action adversely affects the health and well being of others, their “rights” must be weighed against the “rights,” health and well being of the general public.

“Where are the “rights” of young children sitting in a car with adults smoking?

“They are strapped to a car seat for their safety but subjected to the health hazard of second-hand smoke.”

[RWC] Why didn’t Mr. Rodich mention houses?

“It is time for our lawmakers to demonstrate leadership. Get it done.”

[RWC] Note that nowhere did Mr. Rodich mention the right of the property owner to decide. Nowhere did Mr. Rodich acknowledge people can choose to do business where they please and thus address the smoking issue without a nanny government.

Why doesn’t Mr. Rodich just advocate an outright ban on all tobacco smoking? After all, as Mr. Rodich mentioned above, the seatbelt law is a legal precedent.