Rebuttal to “Michigan lawmakers should do their duty and decide on the smoking ban”

Michigan lawmakers should do their duty and pass a workplace smoking ban, but all the evidence shows that the Legislature isn’t willing to do that. This health issue is too important to just let it languish in committee, and that is why I believe it is time to let the voters decide.

It is not only Republicans who support a complete worksite smoking ban. Last year, Senate Democrats voted for a full ban that included casinos and restaurants. But special interests kept this bill from going anywhere.

This year I have not seen anything to indicate that a full ban will be approved by this Legislature. Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, who supports this ban, could help by bringing my bill to the Senate floor for a vote. I also encourage House Speaker Andy Dillon to help us address this issue in the House.

My bill moves “big government” out of the way and lets the people decide the extremely important health issue of smokefree worksites. Initiatives have been placed on the ballot many times in the past. The Detroit News has, itself, supported many important ballot initiatives over the years from stem cell research to private property rights. Ballot initiatives are a legitimate way for the public’s voice to be heard in lawmaking. The ballot is the way to finally let the people decide what the Legislature seems to be unwilling to decide.

Smokefree worksites have been debated by the Legislature for 10 years and still nothing has happened. It is time to let the people decide!