Atari said:I think it might have been better to word the poll question a little more towards banning in all public places. Even those that keep stating everyone should have the right to choose would probably vote yes (I hope) because there's no worthwhile argument for making non-smokers inhale secondhand smoke.
I do find it interesting though, how passionately people defend certain obviously dangerous/lethal products.
I disagree with the ban on all public places. A Bar or restaurant owner should have the right to establish their business as smoking or non smoking. Patrons can then make the choice if they want to enter that environment.
Local governments are passing bans that prohibit smoking in all establishments that include smoke shops such as a cigar lounge basically putting people out of business and denying others the right to choose.
I think the answer is to enforce higher standards of ventilation systems for those that have segregated areas or mandate all or none for smoking establishments and then post it outside. Outright banning and removing the freedom of choice is not the answer.
I for one would seek out a cigar lounge for an occassional smoke, but would more likely frequent a non-smoking bar or restaurant as I usually do not care for cigarette smoke if I am not lighting up. The key is I would know what the establishment is before I entered and have the right to choose. Let the freemarket supply and demand drive the the system. After all free market is what one of the foundations of our country.