Smoking-planks-MN-Gov-debate

==Short Answer Question 8 - Smoking Ban(s)==
: Source: 
Will you work to pass legislation at the state level that would
ensure a smoke-free workplace for all workers, including those who
work in bars and restaurants? Is a uniform statewide public smoking
law/ban preferable over a patchwork of local ordinances?''
=== Ken Pentel - G:===
We should do everything to prevent people from smoking. I support
advertising and educational programs produced by, and marketed to
young people that lead us toward this goal.
I support a statewide ban on smoke-free workplaces and would leave it
to citizens in each county to vote on a referendum if locals
businesses to should be smoke-free.
===Tim Pawlenty - R:===
The health risks associated with secondhand smoke and smoking is
significant, costing Minnesotans $2 billion, according to a study by
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Minnesota. The current piecemeal approach of
county and city bans has created geographical disparities and
financial inequities. I support a reasonable statewide smoking ban in
public places.
===Mike Hatch - D:===
Smoking bans in bars and restaurants should be decided at the local
level. While I believe that all workers are entitled to a safe work
environment, I do not believe that the state should be involved in
making one-size-fits-all decisions and superseding the authority of
local units of government. Having said that, if the legislature enacts
a statewide ban I probably would sign the bill.
===Peter Hutchinson - I:===
Yes. Our comprehensive health care reform plan calls for the
implementation of a statewide indoor workplace smoking ban.
category:Planks_from_elsewhere
category:wellness