Too much government?

The oldest debate facing this country remains what exactly is the role of government? The same question that Hamilton and Jefferson debated centuries ago in Philadelphia is still raging in state houses all across the country.

The Illinois House overwhelmingly approved a statewide smoking ban in public places Tuesday that would eliminate a confusing patchwork of local laws and leave smokers in every community with one place in common to light up—outside.

The House's 73-42 vote sent the measure to Gov. Rod Blagojevich, who indicated he would sign legislation that advocates say would make Illinois the 19th state to impose a broad smoking ban.

Supporters said the bill would fix the crazy-quilt of smoking bans passed by municipalities after the legislature in 2005 gave them the power to adopt local rules.

The state legislation would prohibit smoking in all public buildings and in most businesses and government vehicles. Smoking would be illegal in bars and restaurants, as well as places ranging from student dormitories to private homes in which businesses open to the public are operated.

Opponents contended the legislation would destroy already troubled small businesses, such as mom-and-pop bars that provide customers a place to party down and light up.

The U.S. surgeon general issued a study last year that found there is no safe level of exposure to second-hand smoke and that even brief exposure can cause immediate harm. The study found that non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke at home and work increased their risk of developing heart disease and lung cancer by up to 30 percent.

The report said the only way to protect from the dangers of second-hand smoke is to eliminate indoor smoking.

Blagojevich said he would likely sign the ban, adding that he "would be shocked if there were something in that bill that I didn't like and would keep me from signing it."

Government intrusion or maintaining public safety?


Too much government?