Monday, October 30th, 2006...4:41 pm
201 and 206: You Are Either For Freedom, Or Against It
I’ve seen some ads and comments from people that are supporting the R. J. Reynolds backed Proposition 206. I’m a bit confused by it.
I saw an interview with one supporter of 206, and he said that unlike 201, 206 represents “freedom.” Their advertisements have sent this message as well. This has also been reflected in the flyers that can be seen at local bars that accompany the number 201 with a slash and 206 with an American flag. Apparently, the choice between the two is “more freedom” vs “less freedom.”
Let me see if I understand the difference: 201 bans smoking at bars and restaurants, while 206 only bans smoking at restaurants. So, banning smoking at restaurants is Jeffersonian Democracy, but if you include bars you might as well invite the North Korean army in?
I don’t think I support either proposition. Such regulations are being well handled by local communities, and 206 would, in fact, bar localities from writing any regulations entirely.
As usual, the public is ill served by the well funded but uninstructive rhetoric around a ballot proposition.
2 Comments
October 30th, 2006 at 6:02 pm
I agree completely. Kudos.
October 30th, 2006 at 10:08 pm
Ted,
This one is EASY! Just look at who supports what…The Cancer Society is for 201 & against 206. It’s a no brainer if your a non-smoker…
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