Letter to the Editor: County Residents Have A Right to Breath Smoke-Free Air

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Last week, the St. Charles County Council passed a bill that will allow voters to decide if they want the county to be smoke-free. The bill has now been sent to County Executive Steve Ehlmann who will decide whether or not County residents get the opportunity to vote on this important health issue.

For over three decades, I’ve called St. Charles County home. Due to health issues, my husband and I cannot go anywhere smoking is allowed; severely limiting our choices of entertainment and dining in our own community.

Secondhand smoke is a real danger. And, sure, smokers have a right to smoke, but not in ways that harm other people. So why must I and others have to endanger our health because of someone else’s choice? Every St. Charles County resident and employee has the right to breathe smoke-free indoor air.

If our county were smoke-free, it would mean that myself and others would have the freedom to patron any establishment, the choice to go anywhere without the forced consequences to our health. After all, five minutes outside isn't a lot to ask to keep toxic smoke out of other people's lungs.

I hope County Executive Ehlmann will allow county residents the opportunity to make their voice heard and place the county-wide, comprehensive smoke-free ordinance on the ballot for a vote of the people.

Kay Young, St. Charles