People on both sides of the issue address Council
HANNIBAL, MO. -- People on both sides of Hannibal's smoking ban spoke to the City Council on Tuesday night.
Andy Shipley with the VFW Post # 2446 asked the council to exempt the post from the smoking ban because the VFW is a private, members-only establishment.
He strongly emphasized that the members of the VFW risked their lives to secure the freedoms we all share and that forcing the members of this private club to abide by the ban would be infringing on the freedoms they fought for.
Tina Barbee also spoke at the council meeting.
She told the council that as someone who has dealt with a life long asthma problem, the smoking ban will make it much easier for her and other asthma suffers to enjoy an evening out without worrying about breathing problems.
She also said that smoking affects more than just the smoker.
She said that the smoke takes up the available air and that makes it harder for her to breathe and if it goes too long, it can trigger an attack.
Barbee also reminded the council that voters have clearly stated that they support the smoking ban.
The city says the first reading of the ordinance will probably take place May 1st; however, the election results must be certified before the council considers any ordinance.
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