Quietman's Blog

As you may have heard, the Ohio state Health Department has posted their proposed draft of the new smoking ban at:

http://www.odh.ohio.gov/rules/drafts/3701-52-CleanIndoo
rAIr.aspx

(You'll have to copy both halves of the link)

Between now and January 11th, they are taking public comments on the draft at this email address: beh@odh.ohio.gov

Anti smokers have started a campaign to send comments saying "It's perfect, don't change a thing" OR worse "I think you need to make it more restrictive, please see my attached LONG list of recommendations".

The health department is asking for our comments, they are listening right now through Jan 11th. They won't be listening AFTER Jan 11th. It's important you sign with your name, address and phone number so they know you are an Ohio State Resident, otherwise, your comment won't be considered.

I've attached the comment I sent below for your consideration.

No matter how you respond, make sure you mention "punishing smokers versus protecting workers", You are welcome to plagiarize my response below in any way you see fit.

I encourage you to send this email to as many friends and associates as you can, we need to get the health department to implement as many common sense rules as possible.


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Sirs:

In reviewing your draft of proposed Smoking Ban Rules, I find
virtually in every case that they are too restrictive with little or no consideration for the smoker.

Among other issues, the proposed fines are higher than those for smoking marijuana, an illegal substance.

Private clubs should be completely exempt without restrictions, as indicated on the ballot.
As most clubs require proof of membership, non-smokers should not be inadvertently exposed to second hand smoke.

While smokers in general are considerate of others and do not wish to offend anyone, they would like some consideration for their personal comfort and well being also.

Forcing smokers outside in the elements is not viewed as consideration or a healthy situation. Are we trying to protect workers, as the initial issue proclaims, or trying to punish smokers?

While I do not agree with the severity of Issue 5, I understand that it is your intent to uphold the law, but I do believe that some common sense needs to be applied.

If a business wishes to construct a "SUITABLE" smoking shelter/patio for their employees/patrons, which is enclosed, heated, ventilated, 25 feet from the entrance to the primary establishment, and clearly labeled as a smoking area, I do not see how this would be unhealthy or a reason for the non-smokers to complain. Also, I do not see how this could potentially harm the health of any workers that the
proposed text claims to protect. The restrictions on "enclosures" (i.e. only two walls, etc) may work in warmer states like Florida or California, but I'd like to remind you that the winters in North East Ohio usually involve temperatures at or below freezing, in addition to 100"+ inches of snow per season.

Additionally, many people are stating that this is a 2 step process. First, passage of Issue 5 followed by rules of enforcement. As this is a complaint based system, and there will always be some who will complain, have the local health departments received the additional funding that will be required to enforce this law.

Thank you for any consideration

YOUR NAME
YOUR ADDRESS
YOUR CITY, OH YOUR ZIP
YOUR PHONE NUMBER

SEND YOUR COMMENTS WHILE THEY ARE STILL LISTENING: beh@odh.ohio.gov