IBJ Editorial

An ordinance that would ban smoking in enclosed spaces where it’s still allowed—primarily bars and bowling alleys—is once again being considered by the City-County Council. And again we urge councilors to adopt the measure.Government’s primary role is public safety. Contrary to some government regulations that overreach by protecting us from ourselves, the smoking ordinance would protect the majority non-smoking population from others—those who still engage in a habit Americans have known is dangerous for almost 50 years now.No one credibly disputes the dangers of secondhand smoke, yet it still swirls here in places of business, endangering employees and patrons. Indianapolis should join the tide of history and ban this dangerous habit as have our neighbors in places like Franklin, Plainfield and Zionsville. And when legislators convene next January, they should extend the same protection to people statewide.

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