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Thursday, Nov. 30, 2006
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Ricardo Alvarez smokes a cigarette at sunset on the Santa Monica Beach.
Photo: Damian Dovarganes/ AP
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Santa Monica Says 'No' to Smoke
The law expanding the outdoor areas in Santa Monica that are smoke-free went into effect on Thanksgiving Day. Following months of debate, the City Council unanimously passed the law in late October. It was already illegal to smoke on Santa Monica's pier, beaches and public parks, but now the restrictions apply to public areas including restaurant patios, farmers markets and the ever-popular Third Street Promenade. The strict ban was prompted by a report released by the California Air Resources Board, and is the first of many steps Santa Monica is taking to make the city a healthier place.
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Global Tobacco War
Tobacco consumption remains an overall major health problem for industrialized and developing countries alike. It is estimated that there are 1 billion smokers worldwide, resulting in 3 million smoking-related deaths per year. Acknowledging the health problems associated with smoking, countries around the globe are officially taking a stand against tobacco and making efforts to change smoking habits among their citizens.
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Ban Ignites Debate
Although the effects of smoking and second-hand smoke are known, the more restrictive law still faces strong opposition in Santa Monica. One argument is that prohibiting smoking is a violation of an individual's right to do what he or she wants. Another concern is that restaurants, bars, and businesses in general will suffer, because consumers will no longer be able to smoke in areas they were once able to. |
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Copyright 2006 The L.A. Pilot
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