Letter: Appreciates smoke-free air

Dear Editor,

As a longtime Hudson resident, I just want to express my appreciation to Sen. Harsdorf and Rep. Rhoades for voting in favor of a comprehensive smoke-free law. I also appreciate Gov. Doyle for his steadfast leadership on this important public health initiative which will lead to Wisconsin becoming the 27th smoke-free state.

I am not naive enough to think that this issue is not controversial and know there are strong opinions on both sides — rights of business, rights of individuals and government interference. I would say, however, as someone who has been a longtime advocate and follower of smoke-free public policies, times have changed.

Public opinion polls tell us that the majority of people want to breathe smoke-free air whether they are in an office, restaurant or a bar. As a result, elected officials listen.

Smoke-free air is here to stay and I think it is about time.

Tags: opinion, hudson, letter, smokefree, wisconsin