I grew up on the Big Island of Hawaii, where smoking is banned in all public recreational areas, such as parks and beaches. To me, the decision to snuff out smokers in these pristine areas of paradise is a no brainer. Still, the vote to ban smoking from some of tbe island’s most prized real estate didn’t take place until 2008.
Hard to believe, right?
After all, when you think of parks and beaches, don’t the words “fresh air” immediately come to mind?
If I am hiking to Akaka Falls or tanning myself at Hapuna Beach I sure don’t want a bunch of cancer stick-sucking individuals polluting the air. The fresh air that is fragranced by Hawaii’s indengiouous floral and fauna should remain as perfect as possible. If you want to smoke, have at it… in your car… with the windows rolled up.
I’m sure that last line fired up some of you smokers out there.
It’s the same reaction some Californians have been displaying since local lawmakers announced that they want to ban smoking in state parks.
Legislators backing the ban say it would eliminate cigarette butts from state beaches, get rid of second-hand smoke and reduce the threat of wildfires.
According to Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights, nearly 100 cities currently prohibit smoking at beaches, and more than 400 local governments ban smoking at municipal parks. However, California’s bill proposes prohibiting smoking throughout its entire park system. Though, under a legislative compromise, campsites and parking areas would be exempt from the ban.
Critics of the ban—-including the tobacco industry, which disputes that second-hand smoke is harmful-—say that if California snuffs out smoking in state parks fewer people will want to visit the Golden State.
I wholeheartedly disagree. I highly doubt that tourists are going to cancel flights to California just because they can’t light up while tanning in Malibu, surfing in San Diego, or touring redwoods in Crescent City.
Do you smoke? If so, would you consider canceling a trip to California if lawmakers sign the smoking bill into law?