Smoking has always and will always be a hot topic. Those who never smoked or are "reformed" smokers will always believe that the smoking ban in Illinois was a wonderful idea and a huge victory towards cleaner air. My question to them is this: What is next? What is the next thing the government is going to step in on and legislate? Most probably don't think that far ahead because they are basking in the glow of winning this so called war against smoking.
This is my problem with the whole thing: If the smoke is bothersome and it's concerning someone about their health breathing that in, don't go to places that allow smoking. If I go to a non-smokers house, I don't smoke in their house. But if they come to my house, they shouldn't complain when I smoke. If they don't like being around it, they don't have to come over to my house. It's basically the same logic with this ban. If the owners of bars, restaurants, etc want smoking to be allowed in their establishment it should be their decision. And if those who don't like being around smoke should find somewhere that is smoke-free to patron. "But we should be able to eat, drink, anywhere without being subjected to cigarette smoke" they might say. Well, I feel like I should be able to go somewhere and socialize without having to step outside to smoke also.

For years non-smokers have had their right taken way by smoker being able to smoke in their face, and I have yet to hear a smoker say I will pay for you health problem I caused you.I am also a tax payer! And I think it is the best thing the government has ever done for the non-smoker and the smokers health. No one is saying you cant smoke just dont do it around other that dont want their heath ruined and their clothes to stink.Thanks

I hate going out to somewhere and worrying about if you will wear so it won't smell like smoke when you leave. I get a terrible headache when I am around too much cigarette smoke, so I am glad I won't have to figure out which bars have the least amount of smoke, so I won't be sick before the evening is over.
Congratulations to the IA law makers for following suit with the other smart states. Smoking is not good for anyone, so this is good for everyone, even those who don't believe it!!!

I can't wait until July 1st. The thought of eating at a restaurant without smelling someones nasty habit absolutely thrills me. I wish smokers could smell what it smells like to have someone puffing on a cigerette while I'm trying to eat a meal, some are respectful, but a large group of smokers think that it is their "right" to smoke. What about my rights? I don't want to smell it and I don't want the medical costs that are caused by it! I for one will probably join a pool and a bowling league now that I can do that and not smell like an ashtray. I know I will spend more money at restaurants and bars now! Thanks Chet!!

I totaly agree with you Julie on smoking. My husband and I never smoke around others without their permission. We also do not smoke at most restaurants anyway. I would never smoke in any non smoker's home either. All this banning is just one more step in our Government trying to control us, and what gets me is they make all the revenue for higher taxes on cigarettes, yet 20% of the extra money does not go where it is supposed too? It lines th pockets of someone! These State sure can control people this way, but they sure cannot control their deer causing more accidents. Illinois wants more revenue from the deer hunters! It is plain ridiculous!

I feel like our government is over stepping their bounds.I pay taxes.I should not be told what I can put in my body.If the government wants to provide me with health care ,then they can dictate what I do.I would never smoke around others without their permission.I also have never smoked at the dinner table.So not smoking is not the problem.Having the right to choose taken away is.