In Kansas, we take for granted that our water is clean, the materials used in our homes are safe and our food is free from contamination.

We value government regulation of these issues because we know that without these laws our health would be imperiled.

Why is it that we continue to debate protecting public health when it comes to tobacco? Why is it that smoker’s think their rights trump the rights of non-smokers?

Secondhand smoke exposure is an indisputable health risk for the public and for workers with links to cancer, heart disease, and COPD.

Three independent studies at the University of Kansas Medical Center, the University of California, and the Institute of Medicine came to similar conclusions.

When cities pass smoking restriction ordinances, heart attacks drop an average of 17% in a year and drop an average of 36% after 3 years.

A recent independent survey of topeka residents showed 68% of respondents favored a smoke free ordinance.

We are talking about a public health issue. Secondhand smoke is harmful to the health of our citizens.

Our congratulations to the six members of the Topeka City Council who voted in favor of the clean indoor air ordinance.