It looks like Pennsylvania is under fire once again.

Prescription For Pennsylvania

Smokers beware! Tax hikes, ban in the works

''The health care costs related to tobacco use and adult obesity in Pennsylvania totaled more than $9 billion ..."

What does obesity have to do with smoking? It's a separate health care issue used to inflate the number.

''Second-hand smoke is responsible for the deaths of as many as 3,000 Pennsylvania nonsmokers every year."

I'd like to see this study. I find this amazingly hard to believe. Especially after reading through the World Health Organization's biggest study ever on the risks of second-hand smoke. The study proved that non-smokers were not at risk, yet the study was (conveniently) never released.

I know, the threat of cigar taxes and bans come into action every year here in PA, but sooner or later they're going to win. Especially if we sit around and do nothing to hold onto our freedoms. I don't know about you, but I am thankful for having the right (for now) to enjoy a nice cigar at my favorite restaurant, bar or park bench.

if people want to say second hand smoke kills, thats fine with me, maybe its true maybe its not.  ban smoking in public places like work, restaurants, sure i agree with that.  but making it so decent folk cant enjoy a smoke when they want to without having to accept the fact that uncle sam is proffiting off somthing they are trying to stop, i just cant swallow that.  and telling private business owners that they cant make up their own rules in their own place is just retarded.  even private clubs.  the world is falling apart because of politics, hang onto your asses gents, its only going to get worse from here on.

---

www.homestarrunner.com

It's amazing that the World Health Organization's study proved that non-smokers were not at risk to second-hand smoke.  I am not so amazed when I also hear the study was never released.  Below is an article I found regarding Pennsylvanian tobacco shop owners who are doing what they can to provide a "smoker-friendly" environment despite the smoking ban which took effect on January 1st. 

   http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07011/752711-55.stm

I believe the community needs to start taking a stand against what they feel is right and wrong.  If individuals are being forced to give up their freedoms, then isn't it time for a communal revolution?

 

---

"Tobacco is the plant that converts thoughts into dreams." -Victor Hugo-