ILDA JACOBS, Washington | Wednesday
SOUTH African smokers who are fuming at not being allowed to smoke indoors at restaurants and other public places should spare a thought for some Americans.
0 Residents of the affluent suburb of Friendship Heights in Washington DC can be fined in the region of R700 if they light up on a street pavement.
The suburb’s village council banned smoking or discarding tobacco products on pavements, lawns and parks in the area, four years ago, sparking heated debate.
Only one warning is given to transgressors, after which a fine of US$100, or about R700, is issued.
This is believed to be the most far-reaching ban on outdoor smoking in the United States. Some 77 jurisdictions prohibit outdoor smoking of some form, but it is applicable to large open public spaces like stadiums, beaches and parks.
Says construction worker, Bill Bowen, 39, on an illegal smoke break: “You got a car shooting out fumes right here. If they’re going to ban cigarettes, ban cars.”
Friendship Heights Village Mayor, Alfred Muller, who is the chief promoter of the ban, is also a physician and says it is his obligation as an elected official to achieve a smoke-free society. – African Eye News Service