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As the possibility of a statewide smoking ban comes and goes in the consciousness of Wisconsin residents, it is imperative that we keep in mind the wide-reaching effects of such a ban on our health. A study published earlier this year highlights the benefits of a smoking ban in public areas.

In short, the study showed a decrease in the rate of acute coronary events (essentially referring to heart attacks) amongst adults aged 35 to 64 of 11.2 percent and a decrease among adults aged 65 to 74 of 7.9 percent. This study also showed an increased ability of smokers to quit due to decreased exposure to smoking.

The above findings, in addition to the already known effect of smoking on rates of lung cancer, strokes, and a variety of other illnesses, leave no doubt that the only responsible thing to do is ban smoking in all public places.

The argument against this policy, the right of businesses to choose, doesn’t hold ground when one considers government regulations determining minimum cooking temperature, sale of cigarettes to only those 18 and older and the sale of alcohol only to those 21 and older.

The Tavern League of Wisconsin would have people believe that a smoking ban would cost bars money by driving customers away, when in reality they would increase profits by having their customers in their establishment and not in a hospital bed recovering from a smoking-related illness. Individuals petitioning their legislators can overcome the lobbying efforts of the Tavern League.