New York’s Ban

New York’s Ban

New York’s Ban

In 2003, New York became the third state to follow the footsteps of California and Delaware to approve a statewide smoking ban in most workplaces. New York’s governor, George E. Pataki signed a smoking ban bill that had very few exceptions. Those exceptions were
limited to [Frumkin, Paul] “America indian owned casinos, cigar bars already licensed in New York city, fraternal clubs, outdoor areas of restaurants with no roof or awning, private homes, and personal but not company cars” which was a very strict and inclusive the same bill.
A detail survey conducted by the American heart association indicated [Wheeler, M. Cass] “New York city’s smoking ban is good for business” which should encourage other states to follow the new bill. In the survey of over 29,000 diners, 23% of the diners say they eat out more, because of the law. The survey also indicated that jobs in restaurants and bars increased due to the law. The small sample of surveyed diners appears to prove that the smoking ban did not have a negative impact on restaurants and bars; it actually had a positive impact in local citizens.
While there are segregated smoking areas inside restaurants, it is almost impossible to prevent non smokers from being exposed to second hand smoke. A non smoker could possibly walk thru the smoking area to get a drink or go to the restroom. While the restaurant patrons might have limited exposure to the smoke, the managers, servers, and waiters will have direct exposure to the smoke.
From a deontological perspective, a person should have the right to take their family out to dinner without be exposed to second hand smoke. One could argue that a person’s right is being violated when they cannot enjoy a night out without smelling another person’s smoke. From a utilitarian perspective, the law protects non smokers and could be considered good for the majority of the population. According to the Center for Disease Control...