While I spoke a little soon of the impending law about
to be passed in New York that raises the age for buying
tobacco products to 21, it is going to happen...and it's
drawing a line in the ashes for a multi-faceted war of
rights- Big Tobacco proclaiming this a violation of its
civil right to provide product access to young smokers
versus the anti-tobacco forces that are lobbying to take
cigarettes out of the hands of teenagers, arguably, for
their own good. I don't think Big Tobacco should be
granted much in the way of rights when it comes to
their historic treatment of humans.
I am for this change in law for global health reasons.
If less young people get hooked on nicotine, then
future health care costs won't be so tied to the
therapy, maintenance and procedures smokers and
their health care providers end up having to deal with.
Illness from tobacco products is a major percentage
of overall health care costs. Making it harder to smoke
will not result in an unhealthier population.
Only exception I would consider with this is if those
under 21 join the Armed Forces, they have the right
to decide for themselves, as the law currently exists.
Soldiers should be able to make this decision.
I am a warrior for peace, justice, authentic art, and
fresh air. Since Big Tobacco has never played by the
rules, I'm not sure we should be so concerned with
allowing the Industry a fair shake...after all,
my uncle called for Phillip Morris right after they
removed his kidney...
The article by Steven Nelson from U.S. News and
World Report:
U.S. News: Nationwide Fight Begins Over Raising Tobacco Age To 21
