Smoking ban debate centers on health vs. rights

Publication Date: 2010-08-30

• Author:Tom Lawrence
• Publication:The Daily Republic

Both sides of the proposed ban on smoking in South Dakota bars and restaurants were heard Saturday at the Corn Palace in Mitchell.

Jennifer Stalley, campaign manager for the It’s Time--A Smoke-Free South Dakota ballot committee, and Don Rose, who owns bars in Sioux Falls and Tea and represents Citizens for Individual Rights, sparred on smoking and the financial and legal impact of a ban.

Voters will decide if a ban on smoking in workplaces should be extended to bars and casinos. The 2009 Legislature approved extending the smoking prohibition, but it was referred to a vote.

Stalley said people have a right to work in places that don't threaten their health.

"No one should have to earn their living exposed to these health risks," she said.