What you smoking?

     Texans all over the state are gathering in support of a smoking ban statewide in workplace environments and indoor public areas where citizens gather. Texas legislation has been notorious for setting restrictions and taxes on tobacco. Last year, tobacco taxes increased in order to help fund the federal State Children’s Health Insurance Program. Back then, smoking bans were brought up due to their imposing health risk. Now, it’s making more financial sense for the state to create a statewide ban.

     The Senate Bill 255 and House Bill 670 are pieces of legislation that will be debated in the special session called by Governor Rick Perry. The bill has been given new life because it has the potential to bring in money to health care costs that have been cut from the most current budget proposal. The ban would save a projected $30 million dollars in health care costs. With the budget in such a tight crunch, any amount that can save the deficit is crucial. Also, passing this bill is another way for legislation to balance the budget without raising taxes.

     People should not be fooled into thinking that the passing of this bill will be an infringement upon constitutional rights. Smoking is still going to be legal in Texas. However, the bill would prohibit people from smoking on the job or in public places. Smokers can still light up a cigarette in their front patio at home or in their car. Through much scientific research, it has been proven that there is no safe level of second hand smoke. Second hand smoking could cause pneumonia, bronchitis, and possibly cancer. Pregnant woman exposed to second hand smoke could give birth to babies with complications. The bill would benefit the public who don’t want to be exposed to deadly carcinogens that cause cancer and heart disease.  The health risk alone should be enough to push this bill through legislation with the added cost benefits for the state as ‘icing’ on the cake. This bill may seem somewhat unfair to the smokers of Texas. In any case, the smokers are creating a hazard for the public people who don’t wish to be exposed to the deadly effects of second hand smoke.