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The Straight Story

(48,121 posts)
Wed Mar 20, 2013, 08:38 AM Mar 2013

Do as I say, not as I do (from 2011)

JEFFERSON CITY (MO) - It's illegal to smoke in state buildings, but Missouri lawmakers can still light up inside their offices at the state Capitol.

For years, cities, counties, and other public places have started banning smoking in an attempt to prevent health problems linked to second hand smoke.

"I enjoy going out to dinner a lot more knowing I'm not going to reek someone else's cigarette smoke and food just taste better and people are healthier," Columbia resident Dana Bocke said.

In January 2011, Missouri's capital, Jefferson City, went smoke free. Residents voted to ban smoking in all bars, restaurants and in all state buildings. The only state building that had an exemption to the law was the capitol building itself.

....

While others stand at least 20 feet away to light up, politicians can take a smoke in their own offices.

....

Some lawmakers noted that offices in the Capitol building are private. Other lawmakers think differently and said offices are actually public, but said if lawmakers were to ban smoking in Capitol offices it would take away personal liberty and freedom. They also said it's too much government intrusion.

http://www.komu.com/news/lawmakers-light-up-inside-capitol-despite-city-smoking-ban/

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