In what can only be classified as one of the worst pieces of legislation, even for California, is pending in the legislation in the Golden State. It seems that California State Senator Mark DeSaulniers a Democrat from Walnut Creek and Assembly Member and Chairman of the Majority Causus, Jerry Hill a Democrat from San Mateo are introducing tobacco ban legislation.
These two "gentlemen" have introduced a sweeping piece of tobacco prohibitionist legislation that if passed would seek to close every existing location that Californian's who enjoy legal tobacco products. Senate Bill 575 would ban smoking in all retail tobacco shops, private clubs, hotel lobbies, bars, taverns, banquet rooms, warehouse facilities, and employee break rooms.
As one who not only enjoys the occasional cigar and believes that government has been intrusive enough, this bill is very close to pushing the limits. If a bill like this can pass the State of California, a normally passive state when it comes to individual rights, then a very bad precedent could be set for the rest of the nation. At a time when our economy is hurting, taking the livelihood away from professional tobacconists along with personal freedoms just seems very wrong.
Man, I miss Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. A cigar lover who would have made sure that this bill would have been dead on arrival to his desk.
It's Not About Cigars