Should smoking in cars be banned if children are present?

Issue #38	Date Added	Status
Should smoking in cars be banned if children are present?	Saturday 17th February 2007 12:53:01 AM	Open

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It seems that there are some government officials in New Jersey who want to ban people with children from smoking in their cars. Smoking has already been banned in Restaurants, Bowling Alleys, and just about all other public places. Now they want to ban smoking in cars. For what reason? Apparently they feel that parents are putting their children's health at risk by smoking in a car when their children are present. This is in addition to the fact the many such as The Group against Smoking Pollution feel that smoking contributes to health problems in children. They also stated that there are scientific studies that show smokers actually have more automobile accidents. Some states have already enacted these laws.

Of course there are plenty of people who feel that this type of law is ridiculous. This type of statement comes mostly from people who are smokers. Personally I agree that parents should not be allowed to put their children's health at risk. What people who smoke want is proof that second hand smoke is dangerous. Although there is plenty of proof out their on the effects of second hand smoke, many people who do smoke just don't agree with it. It is because they just don't want to give up their smoking habit. According to studies done on second hand smoke by the U.S. Public Health Service, "The scientific evident that has now been found is indisputable. They feel that second hand smoke is the leading cause of sudden infant death syndrome, lung cancer, ear infections, asthma and a whole lot of other health problems.

The U.S. Public Health Service has also stated that it has been scientifically proven that second hand smoke contains more than 50 chemicals that cause cancer. In addition children especially infants are at greater risk because their bodies are still developing. Since all of these things I have just mentioned are scientific facts how could anyone feel that it is ok to smoke around children? Of course it is not clear yet exactly what will happen if you are caught smoking in the care with your children, but they are probably just hoping that passing a law like this one will get parents to think. Even if you don't agree with all of the scientific research that has been found up to this date, why would you want to wait until more evidence is found? Do you realize that people who smoke could be slowly killing their children?

However, another question to ask is does the government have a right to tell you the parent what is best for your children? This is definitely a question worth asking yourself. Why not post your thoughts and comments on this topic. Let readers know what you think.

jfreedman