| 2006 Ballot Proposition Guide |
PROPOSITION 206
OFFICIAL TITLE
AN INITIATIVE MEASURE
AMENDING TITLE 36, CHAPTER 6, ARIZONA REVISED STATUTES
BY REPEALING SECTIONS 36-601.01 AND 36-601.02; ADDING
NEW SECTION 36-601.01; RELATING TO SMOKING
TEXT OF PROPOSED AMENDMENT
Sec 1. Title
This act may be cited as the "Arizona Non-Smoker
Protection Act."
Sec. 2. Purpose and Intent
In order to protect children, patrons, employees,
veterans, jobs, tourism and private property rights, the
people of Arizona declare their intent to enact the
Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act to ban smoking in all
public places and places of employment with exceptions
including bars and tobacco shops.
Sec. 3. Sections 36-601.01 and 36-601.02 Arizona Revised
Statutes are repealed.
Sec. 4. Title 36, Chapter 6, Article 1 is amended by
adding section 36-601.01 to read:
36-601.01 Smoking in public places and places of
employment; exceptions
A. DEFINITIONS. THE FOLLOWING WORDS AND PHRASES,
WHENEVER USED IN THIS SECTION, SHALL BE CONSTRUED AS
DEFINED IN THIS SECTION:
1. "EMPLOYEE" MEANS ANY PERSON WHO PERFORMS ANY SERVICE
ON A FULL-TIME, PART-TIME OR CONTRACTED BASIS WHETHER OR
NOT THE PERSON IS DENOMINATED AN EMPLOYEE, INDEPENDENT
CONTRACTOR OR OTHERWISE AND WHETHER OR NOT THE PERSON IS
COMPENSATED OR IS A VOLUNTEER.
2. "EMPLOYER" MEANS A PERSON, BUSINESS, PARTNERSHIP,
ASSOCIATION, THE STATE OF ARIZONA AND ITS POLITICAL
SUBDIVISIONS, CORPORATIONS, INCLUDING A MUNICIPAL
CORPORATIONS, TRUST, OR NON-PROFIT ENTITY THAT EMPLOYS
THE SERVICES OF ONE OR MORE INDIVIDUAL PERSONS.
3. "ENCLOSED AREA" MEANS ALL SPACE BETWEEN A FLOOR AND
CEILING THAT IS ENCLOSED ON ALL SIDES BY PERMANENT OR
TEMPORARY WALLS OR WINDOWS (EXCLUSIVE OF DOORWAYS),
WHICH EXTEND FROM THE FLOOR TO THE CEILING, ENCLOSED
AREA INCLUDES A REASONABLE DISTANCE FROM ANY ENTRANCES,
WINDOWS AND VENTILATION SYSTEMS SO THAT PERSONS ENTERING
OR LEAVING THE BULDING OF FACILITY SHALL NOT BE
SUBJECTED TO BREATHING TOBACCO SMOKE AND SO THAT TOBACCO
SMOKE DOES NOT ENTER THE BUILDING OR FACILITY THROUGH
ENTRANCES, WINDOWS, VENTILATION SYSTEMS OR ANY OTHER
MEANS.
4. "HEALTH CARE FACILITY" MEANS ANY ENCLOSED AREA
UTILIZED BY ANY HEALTH CARE INSTITUTION LICENSED
ACCORDING TO TITLE 36 CHAPTER 4, CHAPTER 6 ARTICLE 7, OR
CHAPTER 17, OR ANY HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL LICENSED
ACCORDING TO TITLE 32 CHAPTERS 7, 8, 11, 13, 14, 15,
15.1, 16, 17, 18, 19, 19.1, 21, 25, 28, 29, 33, 34, 35,
39, 41, OR 42.
5. "PERSON" MEANS AN INDIVIDUAL, PARTNERSHIP,
CORPORATION, LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY, ENTITY,
ASSOCIATION, GOVERNMENTAL SUBDIVISION OR UNIT OF A
GOVERNMENTAL SUBDIVISION, OR A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE
ORGANIZATION OF ANY CHARACTER.
6. "PHYSICALLY SEPARATED" MEANS ALL SPACE BETWEEN A
FLOOR AND CEILING WHICH IS ENCLOSED ON ALL SIDES BY
SOLID WALLS OR WINDOWS (EXCLUSIVE OF DOOR OR PASSAGEWAY)
AND INDEPENDENTLY VENTILATED FROM SMOKE-FREE AREAS, SO
THAT AIR WITHIN PERMITTED SMOKING AREAS DOES NOT DRIFT
OR GET VENTED INTO SMOKE-FREE AREAS.
7. "PLACES OF EMPLOYMENT" MEANS AN ENCLOSED AREA UNDER
THE CONTROL OF A PUBLIC OR PRIVATE EMPLOYER THAT
EMPLOYEES NORMALLY FREQUENT DURING THE COURSE OF
EMPLOYMENT, INCLUDING OFFICE BUILDINGS, WORK AREAS,
AUDITORIUMS, EMPLOYEE LOUNGES, RESTROOMS, CONFERENCE
ROOMS, MEETING ROOMS, CLASSROOMS, CAFETERIAS, HALLWAYS,
STAIRS, ELEVATORS, HEALTH CARE FACILITIES, PRIVATE
OFFICES AND VEHICLES OWNED AND OPERATED BY THE EMPLOYER
DURING WORKING HOURS WHEN THE VEHICLE IS OCCUPIED BY
MORE THAN ONE PERSON. A PRIVATE RESIDENCE IS NOT A
"PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT" UNLESS IT IS USED AS A CHILD CARE,
ADULT DAY CARE, OR HEALTH CARE FACILITY.
8. "VETERAN AND FRATERNAL CLUBS" MEANS A CLUB AS DEFINED
IN A.R.S. 4-101(7)(A)(B) OR (C).
9. "PUBLIC PLACE" MEANS ANY ENCLOSED AREA TO WHICH THE
PUBLIC IS INVITED OR IN WHICH THE PUBLIC IS PERMITTED,
INCLUDING AIRPORTS, BANKS, BARS, COMMON AREAS OF
APARTMENT BUILDINGS, CONDOMINIUMS OR OTHER MULTIFAMILY
HOUSING FACILITIES, EDUCATIONAL FACILITIES,
ENTERTAINMENT FACILITIES OR VENUES, HEALTH CARE
FACILITIES, HOTEL AND MOTEL COMMON AREAS, LAUNDROMATS,
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION FACILITIES, RECEPTION AREAS,
RESTAURANTS, RETAIL FOOD PRODUCTION AND MARKETING
ESTABLISHMENTS, RETAIL SERVICE ESTABLISHMENTS, RETAIL
STORES, SHOPPING MALLS, SPORTS FACILITIES, THEATERS, AND
WAITING ROOMS. A PRIVATE RESIDENCE IS NOT A "PUBLIC
PLACE" UNLESS IT IS USED AS A CHILD CARE, ADULT DAY
CARE, OR HEALTH CARE FACILITY.
10. "RETAIL TOBACCO STORE" MEANS A RETAIL STORE THAT
DERIVES THE MAJORITY OF ITS SALES FROM TOBACCO PRODUCTS
AND ACCESSORIES. "RETAIL TOBACCO STORE" DOES NOT INCLUDE
GROCERY STORES, CONVENIENCE STORES, GAS STATIONS,
GENERAL RETAILERS OR SIMILAR RETAIL ESTABLISHMENTS
11. "SMOKING" MEANS INHALING, EXHALING, BURNING, OR
CARRYING OR POSSESSING ANY LIGHTED TOBACCO PRODUCT,
INCLUDING CIGARS, CIGARETTES, PIPE TOBACCO AND ANY OTHER
LIGHTED TOBACCO PRODUCT.
12. "SPORTS FACILITIES" MEANS ENCLOSED AREAS OF SPORTS
PAVILIONS, STADIUMS, GYMNASIUMS, HEALTH SPAS, BOXING
ARENAS, SWIMMING POOLS, ROLLER AND ICE RINKS, BILLIARD
HALLS, BOWLING ALLEYS, AND OTHER SIMILAR PLACES WHERE
MEMBERS OF THE GENERAL PUBLIC ASSEMBLE TO ENGAGE IN
PHYSICAL EXERCISE, PARTICIPATE IN ATHLETIC COMPETITION,
OR WITNESS SPORTING EVENTS.
13. "BAR" MEANS AN ENCLOSED ESTABLISHMENT WHERE THE
PRIMARY PURPOSE IS THE SALE, SERVICE AND CONSUMPTION OF
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES. "BAR" ALSO INCLUDES A SEPARATE,
ENCLOSED PART OF A LARGER ESTABLISHMENT, SUCH AS A
HOTEL, POOL HALL, PRIVATE, VETERANS' OR SERVICE CLUB,
RACE TRACK, RESTAURANT, OR OTHER SIMILAR ESTABLISHMENT,
IF (1) THE PRIMARY PURPOSE OF THAT SEPARATE, ENCLOSED
PART OF THE LARGER ESTABLISHMENT IS THE SALE, SERVICE
AND CONSUMPTION OF ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES; AND (2) THAT
PART OF THE LARGER ESTABLISHMENT IS PHYSICALLY SEPARATED
FROM THE REMAINDER OF THE LARGER ESTABLISHMENT BY FLOOR
TO CEILING PARTITIONS AND HAS A SEPARATE VENTILATION
SYSTEM.
B. SMOKING IS PROHIBITED IN ALL PUBLIC PLACES AND PLACES
OF EMPLOYMENT WITHIN THE STATE OF ARIZONA, EXCEPT THE
FOLLOWING:
1. PRIVATE RESIDENCES, EXCEPT WHEN USED AS A LICENSED
CHILD CARE, ADULT DAY CARE, OR HEALTH CARE FACILITY.
2. HOTEL AND MOTEL ROOMS THAT ARE RENTED TO GUESTS AND
ARE DESIGNATED AS SMOKING ROOMS; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, THAT
NOT MORE THAN FIFTY PERCENT OF ROOMS RENTED TO GUESTS IN
A HOTEL OR MOTEL ARE SO DESIGNATED.
3. RETAIL TOBACCO STORES THAT PROHIBIT MINORS FROM
ENTERING OR REMAINING ON THE PREMISES AND THAT ARE
PHYSICALLY SEPARATED FROM SURROUNDING AREAS BY FLOOR TO
CEILING PARTITIONS AND HAVE A SEPARATE VENTILATION
SYSTEM.
4. VETERANS AND FRATERNAL CLUBS WHEN THEY ARE NOT OPEN
TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC.
5. SMOKING WHEN ASSOCIATED WITH A RELIGIOUS CEREMONY
PRACTICED PURSUANT TO THE AMERICAN INDIAN RELIGIOUS
FREEDOM ACT OF 1978.
6. OUTDOOR PATIOS SO LONG AS TOBACCO SMOKE DOES NOT
ENTER AREAS WHERE SMOKING IS PROHIBITED THROUGH
ENTRANCES, WINDOWS, VENTILATION SYSTEMS, OR OTHER MEANS.
7. A THEATRICAL PERFORMANCE UPON A STAGE OR IN THE
COURSE OF A FILM OR TELEVISION PRODUCTION IF THE SMOKING
IS PART OF THE PERFORMANCE OR PRODUCTION.
8. BARS AS PROVIDED IN SUBSECTION C.
C. A PERSON WHO OWNS A BAR MAY PERMIT THE SMOKING OF
TOBACCO IN ALL OR PART OF THE BAR ONLY AS PROVIDED IN
THIS SUBSECTION, A SUBJECT TO THE FOLLOWING:
1. A PERSON WHO OWNS A BAR THAT PERMITS SMOKING IN ANY
PART OF THE BAR SHALL NOT PERMIT A MINOR TO ENTER OR
REMAIN IN THE BAR.
2. A PERSON WHO OWNS A BAR THAT PERMITS SMOKING IN ANY
PART OF THE BAR SHALL POST A CONSPICUOUS SIGN AT EACH
ENTRANCE TO THE BAR ADVISING PATRONS AND EMPLOYEES THAT
SMOKING IS PERMITTED IN PART OR ALL OF THE BAR.
3. A PERSON WHO OWNS A BAR WHO VIOLATES THIS SECTION IS
GUILTY OF A CLASS THREE MISDEMEANOR.
D. TO PROTECT THE PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS OF ALL PERSONS
WHO OWN BARS AND RETAIL TOBACCO STORES IN THIS STATE,
THE PEOPLE OF ARIZONA FIND AND DETERMINE A SINGLE
STATEWIDE STANDARD FOR SMOKING IN BARS AND TOBACCO SHOPS
TO BE A MATTER OF STATEWIDE CONCERN. IT IS DECLARED THAT
THIS SECTION PREEMPTS ALL MUNICIPAL AND COUNTY LAWS,
CHARTERS, ORDINANCES, RULES AND REGULATIONS RELATING TO
SMOKING IN BARS AND RETAIL TOBACCO STORES.
E. NOTWITHSTANDING ANY OTHER PROVISION OF THIS SECTION,
AN OWNER, OPERATOR, MANAGER, OR OTHER PERSON OR ENTITY
IN CONTROL OF AN ESTABLISHMENT, FACILITY, OR OUTDOOR
AREA MAY DECLARE THAT ENTIRE ESTABLISHMENT, FACILITY, OR
OUTDOOR AREA AS A NONSMOKING PLACE.
F. POSTING OF SIGNS AND ASHTRAY REMOVAL.
1. "NO SMOKING" SIGNS OR THE INTERNATIONAL "NO SMOKING"
SYMBOL (CONSISTING OF A PICTORIAL REPRESENTATION OF A
BURNING CIGARETTE ENCLOSED IN A RED CIRCLE WITH A RED
BAR ACROSS IT) SHALL BE CLEARLY AND CONSPICUOUSLY POSTED
BY THE OWNER, OPERATOR, MANAGER, OR OTHER PERSON IN
CONTROL OF THAT PLACE IDENTIFYING WHERE SMOKING IS
PROHIBITED BY THIS SECTION AND WHERE COMPLAINTS
REGARDING VIOLATIONS MAY BE REGISTERED.
2. EVERY PUBLIC PLACE AND PLACE OF EMPLOYMENT WHERE
SMOKING IS PROHIBITED BY THIS SECTION SHALL HAVE POSTED
AT EVERY ENTRANCE A CONSPICUOUS SIGN CLEARLY STATING
THAT SMOKING IS PROHIBITED.
3. ALL ASHTRAYS SHALL BE REMOVED FROM ANY AREA WHERE
SMOKING IS PROHIBITED BY THIS SECTION BY THE OWNER,
OPERATOR, MANAGER, OR OTHER PERSON HAVING CONTROL OF THE
AREA.
G. NO EMPLOYER MAY DISCHARGE OR RETAILATE AGAINST AN
EMPLOYEE BECAUSE THAT EMPLOYEE EXERCISED ANY RIGHTS
AFFORDED BY THIS SECTION OR REPORTS OR ATTEMPTS TO
PROSECUTE A VIOLATION OF THIS SECTION.
H. AN OWNER, MANAGER, OPERATOR OR EMPLOYEE OF PLACE
REGULATED BY THIS LAW SHALL INFORM ANY PERSON WHO IS
SMOKING IN VIOLATION OF THIS LAW THAT SMOKING IS ILLEGAL
AND REQUEST THAT THE ILLEGAL SMOKING STOP IMMEDIATELY.
I. THIS LAW DOES NOT CREATE ANY NEW PRIVATE RIGHT OF
ACTION NOR DOES IT EXTINGUISH ANY EXISTING COMMON LAW
CAUSES OF ACTION.
J. A PERSON WHO SMOKES WHERE SMOKING IS PROHIBITED IS
GUILTY OF A PETTY OFFENSE WITH A FINE OF NOT LESS THAN
FIFTY DOLLARS AND NOT MORE THAN THREE HUNDRED DOLLARS.
K. TRIBAL SOVEREIGNTY - THIS SECTION HAS NO APPLICATION
ON INDIAN RESERVATIONS AS DEFINED IN ARS 42-3301(2).
Sec. 5. Severability
If any provision, clause, sentence or paragraph of this
Act or the application thereof to any person or
circumstances shall be held invalid, that invalidity
shall not affect the other provisions of this Act which
can be given effect without the invalid provision or
application, and to this end the provisions of this Act
are declared to be severable.
ANALYSIS BY LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL
Currently, state statutes provide that smoking tobacco
is prohibited in certain areas and most state buildings.
A person who smokes where smoking is prohibited is
guilty of a petty offense. Several cities and towns also
have restrictions on smoking in public places.
Proposition 206 would prohibit smoking in all public
places and places of employment, except as provided by
the proposition. These exceptions include:
1. Bars, including parts of restaurants, hotels and
other establishments that sell alcoholic beverages and
are physically separated with a separate ventilation
system.
2. Retail tobacco stores that are physically separated
and independently ventilated.
3. Veterans and fraternal clubs when they are not open
to the public.
4. Hotel rooms designated as smoking rooms.
5. Outdoor patios.
Proposition 206 would prohibit a minor from entering a
bar that permits smoking.
Proposition 206 also would prescribe notice and other
requirements for operating establishments to implement
the smoking restrictions. In addition, an employer could
not retaliate against an employee for exercising any
rights provided by the proposition.
A bar owner who violated the proposition would be guilty
of a class 3 misdemeanor. Any other violation would be a
petty offense.
Proposition 206 would preempt all city, town and county
laws relating to smoking in bars and retail tobacco
stores.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
State law requires the Joint Legislative Budget
Committee (JLBC) Staff to prepare a summary of the
fiscal impact of certain ballot measures. State and
local governments may receive additional revenues in the
form of fines and penalty assessments from violators of
the provisions of Proposition 206. The total amount of
fines and assessments will depend on the level of
compliance, which is difficult to predict in advance.
ARGUMENTS "FOR" PROPOSITION 206
Vote Yes on the Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act.
Dear Voters,
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act protects
non-smokers with a balanced, reasonable, consistent,
statewide non-smoking law. The act prevents minors from
entering any establishment that allows smoking and
places signs at any bar or tobacco shop that allows
smoking to protect non-smokers from entering
unknowingly.
This is a responsible way to preserve individual freedom
and responsibility, and easily accommodate those who
prefer to stay as far away from smoke as they choose.
What is really at stake here? Freedom.
On one hand you have a radical, over the top smoking ban
that would likely destroy a number of small businesses
often patronized by smokers. On the other hand, you have
a statewide ban on smoking, but with common-sense
exceptions for separately ventilated bars and tobacco
shops.
Adults should be able to decide on what kind of bar they
want to frequent and small business owners should have
the right to run their business as they see fit. No one
is forcing anyone to come into an establishment or to
work there.
No one likes being told what to do and when to do it,
especially when you are in the minority. Non-smokers
have rights, but those rights do not include the right
to demand that smokers stay home. It's un-American.
Americans, and especially Arizonans, should be proud of
our heritage of self-restraint, limited government and
reliance on personal responsibility. That heritage
includes resisting the temptation to over-regulate the
lives of others, and not create new burdens on small
businesses or their customers. The Arizona Non-Smoker
Protect Act gives informed voters a chance to be
responsible: to preserve the freedom of smokers,
non-smokers and the businesses that serve both.
Please join us in Voting YES!
Mark Anthony Desimone, Chairman, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Tempe Smoking Ban Hurt Business
Dear Voters,
I am a former business owner in Tempe. I can tell you
that, despite what the proponents of a complete smoking
ban want you to believe, a total ban on smoking in Tempe
put me out of business.
I understand the needs to protect non-smokers and
minors, but I also believe that property owners should
have the right to serve their adult customers as they
see fit. The fact that I was unable to serve my
clientele and offer them what they wanted is what forced
us to close our doors.
That is why I am supporting Proposition 206. The Arizona
Non-Smoker Protection Act protects non-smokers while
preserving private property rights. This initiative
would prohibit smoking in enclosed public spaces and
places of employment with a few sensible exceptions such
as tobacco shops and bars. This is a simple, honest, and
tolerant law that takes into account those who do not
want to be impacted by secondhand smoke and the
businesses that rely on a smoking clientele to stay
open.
This issue comes down to a choice.
Patrons have choice. Any bar can cater to its
clientele by choosing to remain non-smoking if that is
what their adult patrons want.
Employees have choice. They can choose to work in a
bar which allows smoking, or in a bar which prohibits
smoking. Small business owners should have the ability
to preserve their investments and protect our private
property rights.
Please join me in voting YES on Proposition 206!
Dave Werner, Scottsdale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
I support passage of the Arizona Non-Smoker Protection
Act.
As Governor of Arizona during the largest economic
growth period in our state's history, I am convinced
that a low-tax and business-friendly environment are
responsible for that growth. That success promises to
continue, but not if misguided and extreme public
policies, like a complete smoking ban, do harm to our
economic potential. We should not try to create a world
of over-regulation of private businesses where bar
owners are needlessly forced to turn many of their
customers away. That's not fair.
Fortunately, there is a balanced solution. A reasonable
compromise between smokers and non-smokers is the
Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act, which would ban
smoking statewide but exclude bars that choose to allow
patrons to smoke. Non-smokers would be protected from a
smoking environment by the owners of the bar that choose
to disallow it. And smokers would have their right to
choose to smoke respected by bars that allow it.
It's business owners, not government, who are
best-suited to make decisions about making their hard
work and investment in their businesses worthwhile and
beneficial to their customers and the public.
Arizona has a long tradition of protecting individual
rights and allowing businesses to thrive under their own
management and decision-making, not that of the
government. In fact, business owners are held even more
accountable by their customers than government ever
could, which makes heavy-handed government restrictions
on businesses completely unnecessary. Let's let business
owners offer their customers the choice.
Whether you are a smoker or not, for your own sake and
to support the freedom of choice in Arizona, please vote
in favor of the Non-Smoker Protection Act.
Fife Symington
Former Governor of Arizona
Fife Symington, Former Governor of Arizona, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
The most basic tenant of being a 'free' people is to
respect all others as long as they don't harm anyone's
person, property or the exercise of their individual
rights. All-too-often there are special interests,
government administrators looking for another 'revenue
stream' or just plain busybodies who want tell us how to
live, as if they had a better 'plan' for your life. Are
you as sick of them as I am? I hope so, and that's why
I'm asking you to support "The Arizona Non-Smoker
Protection Act".
There are two other propositions on the ballot for your
consideration and I'm asking you to reject them because
they are the handiwork of people who think you need
another law to tell you how to live--and they want more
of your money. On the other hand, I actually trust YOU
to be courteous, respectful and mindful of your fellow
Arizonans.
It's not hard to figure out the mindset of those who
would attempt to con you into helping them legitimize
the use of brute government force to outright ban a
totally legal activity or to impose a tax on a specific
group of people.
"The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act" respects the
rights of the individual to a smoke-free public sector,
while respecting the property rights of private business
owners to decide whether or not they will offer smoking
permitted accommodations to their customers. It's both
fair and practical, and it doesn't require more of your
money.
Please join me in supporting "The Arizona Non-Smoker
Protection Act". Stand up for our individual rights and
liberties by rejecting the other two propositions that
only do violence to the very notion of 'freedom'.
Barry Hess, Libertarian Candidate to Replace the Governor, www.HessForGovernor,Com, Glendale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Businesses Should Have the Right to Choose
Dear Voter,
I believe that a business owner should have the right to
serve the customers of his or her own choosing. Adults
should be able to decide on what kind of place they want
to frequent and small business owners should have the
right to run their business as they see fit. No one is
forcing anyone to come into any establishment or to work
there.
That is why I am supporting the Arizona Non-Smoker
Protection Act. It is the only one that protects
non-smokers while preserving private property rights.
The Non-Smoker Protection Act is a balanced, reasonable,
consistent, statewide non-smoking law. The act prevents
minors from entering any establishment that allows
smoking - while preserving the adult choice to decide on
what kind of establishment they want to frequent.
Patrons have choice. Any bar can cater to its clientele
by choosing to remain non-smoking if that is what their
adult patrons want.
Employees have choice. They can choose to work in a bar
which allows smoking, or in a bar which prohibits
smoking. Either way, they will know in advance whether
smoking is going to be allowed.
This act creates a fair statewide standard which
protects small businesses, jobs, and one of Arizona's
largest industries, tourism while protecting minors and
non-smokers.
Please join me in supporting the Arizona Non-Smoker
Protection Act.
Carol Springer, Yavapai County Supervisor, Prescott
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Argument FOR Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act
Dear Voters,
I am not a smoker. However, I think that these issues
have more to do with the proper role of government than
they do about smoking.
I am a supporter of individual choice and a limited
government that protects our freedoms and respects
personal responsibility. I believe that there is a
responsible way to preserve individual freedom and
responsibility, while accommodating non-smokers who
prefer to stay far away from smoke.
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protect Act is the better smoking
law because it preserves the freedom of non-smokers,
smokers and private property owners. It protects
non-smokers with a balanced, reasonable, consistent,
statewide non-smoking law. The act prevents minors from
entering any establishment that allows smoking and
places signs at any bar or tobacco shop that allows
smoking to protect non-smokers from entering
unknowingly.
The government should not be in the business of telling
private property owners how to run their business if
they choose to allow a legal activity such as smoking.
The choice should be left to the business owner who will
let the market decide.
Adults should have the right to decide on what kind of
establishment they want to frequent. No one is forcing
anyone to come into an establishment or to work there.
It is a reasonable law that allows for choice.
Please join me in voting Yes.
Representative Russell Pearce, Arizona House of Representatives, Mesa
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters:
One of the many benefits of living in a democracy is our
ability to participate in the political process and
freely make our views known in a way that impacts public
policy.
As executive vice president of R.J. Reynolds Tobacco
Company, one public policy issue I am increasingly
concerned about is the proliferation of smoking bans
that make no exceptions for adult-only venues like bars.
We urge those who share our concern to support
Proposition 206, an act that is a common-sense approach.
Proposition 206 provides significant protection for
non-smokers while allowing smoking in a limited number
of venues such as bars, tobacco shops and private clubs.
It's a fair, reasonable, and tolerant statewide law.
In many cities where comprehensive smoking bans have
become law, they have led to business, revenue and job
losses. In our view, business owners, who serve only
adult customers, should be free to establish their own
smoking policies.
Just as adult customers are free to make a decision
about entering establishments that allow smoking,
employees can also decide whether they want to work
around smokers. Those who are concerned about the
potential health impact of secondhand smoke are free to
seek employment in any of the thousands of restaurants
and bars that voluntarily ban smoking on their own.
The bottom line is Proposition 206 is a common sense
solution that will protect non-smokers, children,
smokers, and small businesses. On November 7, vote yes
on proposition 206...it's the best choice for Arizona.
Tommy J. Payne, Executive Vice President, External Relations, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Winston-Salem
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voters,
We are writing you today to encourage you to support
Proposition 206, a simple, honest, fair, tolerant, and
reasonable smoking plan that balances the rights of
non-smokers with the rights of private property owners.
It's a better choice that allows adults to make adult
decisions while protecting children.
Arizona Licensed Beverage Association (ALBA), the State
trade association for liquor retailers, represents the
entire range of retail liquor licensees, including bars,
restaurants, service and veterans clubs and anyone else
who sells liquor to consumers. Most of our members are
small, independent business people, hoping to make a
living and leave something to their kids. We remain
steadfast in our belief that property owners and
business people should have a right to control their
property and their business.
We certainly understand that many non-smokers simply do
not want to be around smoking because they find it
offensive or they have concerns about secondhand smoke.
We respect the rights of these people, and we support
those business owners, including many or our members,
who choose to distinguish themselves from others by
catering to a non-smoking clientele. Taking away this
ability to decide how to serve your customers harms all
business owners.
That is why we strongly support Proposition 206.
Proposition 206 is a uniform statewide smoking ban that
bans smoking where children are permitted, while
allowing bar owners, where kids aren't allowed, to
choose whether they will allow smoking in their bar.
Proposition 206 does not increase taxes and does not
increase the size of government.
We believe that Proposition 206 is a better law that
allows for choice. Please join us and the small
businesses that we represent in voting YES on 206.
Bill Weigele, President, Arizona Licensed Beverage Association, Tempe
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
One of the most polarizing debates in America today is
that between smokers and non-smokers. There are many
arguments for one side or another on this issue, but I
think a common ground can be found that will be
acceptable to everyone.
I am a non smoker. I don't like to smell smoke and I
don't like to be around it. However, I think that there
should be a common ground solution that is in line with
the American spirit of compromise and takes into account
the realities of life in Arizona.
A common sense policy is exactly what is offered in
Proposition 206. The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act
allows the majority of the population to have the
non-smoking environment that health concerns demand. The
act is aptly named because it achieves the dual goal of
protecting the health of citizens who do not wish to be
exposed to tobacco smoke while allowing smokers a public
place to peaceably assemble.
It should provide meaningful solutions that are
acceptable to both sides of the debate.
I honestly think that this policy would be best for all
of Arizona. Please join me in voting Yes.
Raymond L. "Skip" Graham, Dewey
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
I am life-long Arizona resident concerned about the
direction of our state and how our government is taking
too much control of our individual rights and freedoms.
That is why I have made an important decision
to support the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act.
I believe it is vital we maintain right of individuals
and small businesses to make an honest living. To me it
is not a smoking or non-smoking issue, it is about
personal choice. I have managed to raise 6 children and
live 75 years without the aid of government. I do not
choose to have them overseeing my basic rights as a
citizen at this point in my life.
The small business owner should have the same ability as
has always been, to reserve the right to refuse service
to anyone. "No shirts, no shoes, no service", is a
phrase we are all familiar with. That was the decision
of the individual business owner, not the government and
it's worked so far.
Arizona has an obligation to its citizens to act in
EVERYONE'S best interests, not just some. Arizona has
always been the trailblazer, independent thinker, and
our state is regarded for that. Californians voted to
allow their government to oversee their health, and
maybe that's working for them. Arizona is not, and
doesn't want to be the next California, that's why we
need to maintain our own voice.
The Non Smoking Protection Act will keep our freedoms
intact by offering a reasonable smoking policy for all
Arizonans. It is important for us to maintain our basic
freedom of choice and protect small business owners by
voting YES on the Arizona Non Smoking Protection Act.
Linda January, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Protecting Freedom for Veterans and Everyone else
Dear Voters of Arizona,
James Madison once said, "I believe there are more
instances of the abridgement of the freedom of the
people by gradual and silent encroachments of those in
power than by violent and sudden usurpations."
As a Veteran, I fought for freedom and liberty. However,
I now see that here at home, we are now under threat of
Government restrictions of freedom through the gradual
regulation of behavior.
We don't need the government to tell adults what they
can and can't do. I fought for the right to make choices
for myself.
This issue is about choice even for bar employees. Just
like a person chooses to be a firefighter, a coal miner,
a delivery driver, construction worker, or my own
personal choice to be in the military - there are
factors that need to be considered when you are taking
the job.
Ultimately, workers can choose to work in a bar which
allows smoking, or in a bar which prohibits smoking.
Either way, they will know in advance whether smoking is
going to be allowed. If a worker does not want to work
in an establishment that allows smoking, they have the
right to find another job. In the same way, a bar owner
should have the right to operate their business as they
see fit.
So, please join my in preserving freedom by voting YES
on the Arizona Non Smoking Protection Act.
Dennis McCorry, Sun City
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voter,
As a Veteran, I encourage you to support the Arizona
Non-Smoker Protection Act to preserve adult choice. We
as adults should have the right to decide on what kind
of establishment we want to frequent.
Solving the public smoking issue with a sensible plan is
the American way. We must protect the rights on
non-smokers, but make room for sensible polices which
allow adult smokers some limited freedom too.
This is the kind of freedom that I fought for.
The Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act preserves private
property rights, allowing the establishments to make the
choice on whether they want to permit or prohibit
smoking.
We as Arizonans need to resist the temptation to put
restraints on the lives of others and not create new
burdens.
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act gives voters a
chance to be responsible by preserving the freedom of
smokers, non-smokers, and the establishments that serve
both. Join me in supporting a fair statewide standard
that protects our rights and freedoms.
Art Grosch, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter:
I write to you today on a matter of sincere concern for
my community and the whole state of Arizona. As a small
business owner, I am well aware of the pressing need to
respect the wishes and interests of all my customers.
These concerns are never more prevalent than the debate
on smoking bans.
As a former elected public official, I recognize that
this issue is a heated one and that a lot of talk will
not win anyone over. That is why I support a common
sense approach to the issue; an approach offered in the
Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act. I support this
measure because it is a real and effective change that
preserves freedom and adult choice while addressing the
concerns of those opposed to the use of tobacco
products.
In brief, this group's proposed initiative would ban
smoking in public places with the exception of bars and
tobacco shops. Only bars which are closed off from other
areas, and have a separate ventilation system, would be
able to allow smoking.
Under this measure,
Patrons have a choice. Any bar can cater to its
clientele by choosing to remain non-smoking, if that is
what their adult patrons' desire; and
Employees have a choice. They can choose to work in a
bar which allows smoking, or in one that prohibits
smoking. Either way, they will know in advance whether
smoking is allowed or prohibited before accepting
employment.
Again, I support this common sense approach to
establishing a smoking policy in Arizona.
Pat Conner, Yuma
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
When it comes to freedom, I have some pretty strong
opinions. As far as I'm concerned, a blatant smoking ban
is a violation of some of the basic freedoms that
Americans hold dear.
As a Veteran, I made a commitment to defend freedom and
preserve the American way. I am doing that again today
by supporting The Arizona Non Smoking Protection Act.
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection act is a rational,
common sense smoking policy. What they want to do is put
in place a smoking ban for all public places, but still
allows a highly selective group of places like bars to
choose to allow smoking. It's a smart way to give
non-smokers what they want while defending freedom and
preserving adult choice.
That's what I fought for!
The Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act is a clear and
reasonable solution for the people of Arizona.
Scott Ogborn, Tonopah
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voter:
I am pleased to announce my support of the Arizona
Non-Smoking Protection Act because it will work on
behalf of small business owners to preserve our
investments and protect our private property rights.
It is reasonable to believe we would all want a
reasonable law prohibiting smoking in all places where
individuals and minors are able to go, while preserving
the right of bar and tobacco shop owners to provide
separately ventilated and walled off smoking areas if
they so choose.
This is a realistic approach to the problem. The Arizona
Non-Smoking Protection Act would prohibit smoking in
nearly all public places, but takes the common sense
approach of allowing bars and tobacco shops to allow
smoking areas where minors are not allowed.
This is a smart plan that protects minors, non-smokers,
business owners, and most importantly, it will respect
the rights of all individuals in our state.
Please vote yes!
John W. Dawson, Chairman & CEO, The Scottsdale Plaza Resort, Scottsdale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voters of Arizona,
As small business owners, we have learned over time to
allow the market and our customers to dictate the kind
of business and amenities we offer. We have allowed
trends to determine how we serve our clientele.
We should have the choice to continue making these
decisions into the future -especially when it comes to
smoking. That is why we are supporting the Arizona Non
Smoker Protection Act to preserve choice.
There are two main reasons I support this:
1. Patrons should have a choice. Any bar can cater to
its clientele by choosing to remain non-smoking if that
is what their adult patrons want.
2. Owners and Employees should also have a choice. They
can choose to own or work in a bar which allows smoking,
or a bar which prohibits smoking.
We do not need the government to tell adults what they
can and can't do. Let's allow people to make the choice
for themselves. As long as tobacco is a legal substance
the choice should be ours. Help protect everyone's
private property rights.
Mary Kaffer, Co-owner of Sage and Sand, Yuma
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Support Reasonable Laws that Don't Hurt My Business
Dear Voters of Arizona,
I am supporting Proposition 206 because it's a
reasonable law that allows adults to make adult
decisions. I am not a smoker, but I understand that a
significant portion of my clientele does and I need to
make sure that I can cater to them.
As part of our weekly schedule, we currently hold a
Poker tournament. It is a chance to people to get
together to play cards, drink, and smoke. Poker is very
popular right now, and it has made Monday nights one of
the most successful nights of my week. Proposition 206
will allow me to keep this night intact and allow me to
continue my business.
On the other hand, if we pass a comprehensive ban such
as the one posed by Smoke-Free Arizona, I will see all
my business leave for the Indian Casinos where these
smoking laws will not apply. Nearly a million people in
Arizona live within 5 miles of an Indian Casino - the
fact that they will still be able to allow smoking will
definitely hurt businesses across the state.
Our businesses do not need to be hurt any worse than
they already are. It's a fact that the last thing
businesses like bars in our community need is another
thing to keep customers away.
Proposition 206 is what is best for our town, its
businesses, and all of Arizona. Please join me in
supporting the reasonable and fair choice.
Randy L. Kadavy, Glendale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters,
I am a non-smoker and I am voting YES on Proposition 206
to protect my freedom of choice. There will be people
out there that will try to cloud this issue. They will
say a lot of things in an attempt to rationalize taking
away your right to choose. No matter how you look at it,
a prohibitive ban will be a chip away at the rights that
we hold so dear.
That is why we must preserve choice by voting Yes on
206.
The other smoking law is a complete ban that is
un-American and limits people's right to choose. If we
allow such heinous infringements on our rights to
continue unchecked, there is no telling what someone
might try next. Next time, what will be keeping special
interests from taking away your rights?
I don't smoke, so I will stay away from bars that have
smoking. It's a simple as that. I will know where they
are because of the signage, and I will be able to make
the choice for myself and my family.
That is why we need to stop all this nonsense here and
now and make a rational choice that is fair to everyone.
We need to protect our freedom of choice! Vote YES ON
206.
Keri Roth, Tempe
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Stand up for Freedom!
Voters of Arizona:
The people of Arizona need to know that when it comes to
a smoking ban it doesn't have to be all or none. Groups
like Smoke-Free Arizona have pushed a blatant ban for
all of Arizona. But that's not the way we do things
around here.
Having Freedom and Choice is part of what it means to be
an American.
I'm the owner of the Six Shooters Sports Bars and a
small business owner. I don't make people come into my
bar, and I don't make people work here. So why should
someone else tell me what kind of establishment I should
run?
It's about time that Arizona takes a common sense
approach to its smoking policy. A blatant ban will not
respect the rights of all Arizonans and would jeopardize
hundreds of small businesses.
There is an alternative.
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act is offering a
reasonable smoking policy on the ballot this November.
Only bars which are closed off from other areas, and
have a separate ventilation system would be able to
allow smoking. It is a reasonable, common sense
approach. I encourage all Arizonans to vote YES on the
Non Smoker Protection Act.
Rick Forbes, Scottsdale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
This is About Freedom!
Dear Voter,
I am proud to live in America where we are free to do
what we want as long as we aren't hurting others.
That is why I support the Arizona Non-Smoker Protection
Act. It is a comprehensive and clear policy for the
whole state that bans smoking in public places, but
still permits smoking in a few limited places where
minors are not allowed to go.
There is no doubt that smoking in Arizona is a big deal.
When it comes to this election, however, the choice
isn't really about smoking, but rather about Freedom. On
this upcoming question, you will have the choice between
a blatant ban and a reasonable restriction.
Arizona needs a common sense smoking policy that gives
people a place to smoke, while protecting the rights of
the majority of us non-smokers. That policy is The
Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act.
Hut Hutson, Tempe
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
I have been following closely the hotly debated issue on
smoking in public places. As a worker in a smoking
environment, I am very concerned that my ability to
choose where I work will be taken away from me through
more government intervention. I am relieved to know that
the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act will allow
individuals like myself the freedom to decide where I
want to work.
The Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act will allow
individuals like myself the choice to work in either a
smoking or non-smoking environment. It is the type of
flexibility workers and small business owners need to
continue to make a living and contribute back to our
community. It is a reasonable approach to providing
options for all Arizonans.
Whether you are a smoker or non-smoker, the Arizona Non
Smoker Protection Act is our best option when it comes
to protecting our individual rights and the rights of
the small business owner.
I strongly urge everyone to Vote YES on the Non Smoker
Protection Act.
Gloria McGovern, Lake Havasu City
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters,
It is understandable that I get up in arms when people
start talking about passing blatant smoking bans in
Arizona. My customers aren't shy about their opinions on
any smoking ban that would prevent them from having the
freedom to make a choice on the kind of establishment
they want to frequent.
What Arizona needs is a common sense approach to the
issue of smoking, one that will respect the right of all
smoking and non-smoking Arizonans, while providing an
ample amount of choice in our local economy.
That's where the Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act comes
in. What they propose is a smoking ban in public places
but provides highly limited exceptions for places like
tobacco shops and bars.
I strongly support this group and recognize that its
efforts are in the best interest of Arizonans. The
Non-Smoker Protection Act is a balanced, reasonable,
consistent, statewide non-smoking law. The act prevents
minors from entering any establishment that allows
smoking - while preserving the adult choice to decide on
what kind of establishment they want to frequent.
It's a good plan for everyone. Join me in voting YES!
Donna Rumfola, Flagstaff
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
As a member of the hospitality industry and the owner of
a restaurant and bar in Safford, I am encouraging you to
vote YES on the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act.
The Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Act protects
non-smokers while preserving private property rights.
This initiative would prohibit smoking in enclosed
public places and places of employment with a few
sensible exceptions such as tobacco shops and bars.
I am part of the coalition of organizations and small
businesses in Arizona who want to establish a common
sense and widely acceptable smoking policy. While I
think that we should protect minors and non-smokers, I
also believe that it is imperative that we preserve
adult choice. Adults should have the right to decide on
what kind of establishment they want to frequent.
The Non-Smoker Protection Act is a balanced, reasonable,
consistent, statewide non-smoking law. Please join me in
voting YES!
Robin Cantrell, Thatcher
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voters,
I work in a bar. It's a good profession and I like the
people I work with and the people I meet. I know what
kind of environment I work in, and I knew about it when
I started there.
If I wanted or needed to work in a smoke-free workplace,
I would have chosen a non-smoking restaurant/bar. There
are plenty of them around. When people walk into the
bar, they know the environment that they are entering.
More importantly, they choose to be in that environment.
Proposition 206 allows adults to make that choice while
protecting non-smokers and children. Proposition 206 is
a uniform statewide smoking ban that allows adults to
make adult decisions.
I understand that people don't want to be around smoke,
and they don't want to be near second hand smoke. There
should be places for those people, but there should also
be places where smokers can go and I think that giving
bars a choice is a reasonable and tolerant solution.
Please join me in voting Yes on 206.
Chelsea Ridout, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Let's use some common sense.
Dear Editor,
Arizona desperately needs a common sense approach to a
smoking ban. We need a fair, balanced, reasonable
solution. As someone personally and financially
interested in these matters, I think we need a more
reasonable approach.
The Non-Smoker Protection Act is a balanced, reasonable,
consistent, statewide non-smoking law. Only bars which
are closed off from other areas, and have a separate
ventilation system would be able to allow smoking. A bar
is not required to change from non-smoking to smoking -
and no customer is forced to enter a smoking
establishment.
The issue comes down to Adult Choice. Adults choose what
they eat, what they wear, where they work, and what they
want to do with their time. They should have a choice as
patrons about what kind of place they want to go. Any
bar can cater to its clientele by choosing to remain
non-smoking if that is what their adult patrons want.
As the owner of the Empty Pockets Saloon, I strongly
support the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act. They are
compelling and account for the realities of business in
Arizona.
Robert Adley Smith, Holbrook
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
A small business owner faces many challenges every day.
From what I should serve, to the events my customers
want, I am always looking for the best way to serve my
clientele.
No matter how you feel about it personally, it cannot be
denied that the people in Arizona who do smoke make up
an important part of my customer base. I depend upon
their business to keep my business going and because of
that I know that the last thing they want is to not be
able to smoke in my bar.
Smoking bans do not just affect the business outlook for
members of Arizona's bars, but they also directly
question the owner's rights to run a business and serve
his or her customers. A complete smoking ban in Arizona
would be devastating to my business. The smokers would
simply leave my establishment and head out to the Indian
Reservation to smoke in their bars and casinos.
We need a compromise that balances the rights of
non-smokers and smokers. That's where the Arizona
Non-Smoker Protection Act comes in. It is smoking policy
that bans smoking from all public places, but allows for
reasonable exceptions like bars and tobacco shops. This
plan protects children and non-smokers while allowing
adults to make up their own minds.
For the future of my business, please join me in Voting
Yes on Prop 206.
David Wimberley, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters,
I am a non-smoker, and want my children to sit in a
smoke free restaurant for dinner, but I also like my
freedoms as an American. NO ONE has to go to a bar, and
children are not even allowed to in there, so why not
allow smoking? If I don't want to be in that
environment, there are plenty of places that I can go
where I don't have to breathe in smoke.
What if someone was allergic to perfumes? Would the
government ban them? How about someone allergic to
peanuts, should we halt all peanut production? The
answer is NO!
We have something FREEDOM in the country. I am free to
pick where I want to go. No one in the government needs
to help me make that choice by restricting other
people's FREEDOMS. Too much time and effort is spent on
these trivialities.
Prop 206 does enough to protect children and
non-smokers. It's a sensible plan that we all should
support.
Robert R. Dwyer, Scottsdale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
I am not a fan of smoking laws. Prohibitions usually
fail to recognize the serious concerns of business
owners, their workers, and the preferences of their
customers. However, I am also realistic and I know that
a smoking law will be adopted this upcoming election.
That being the case, I am supporting the Arizona Non
Smoker Protection Act because it does the best job of
preserving freedom while protecting the folks that don't
want to smoke.
In general, smoking bans ignore and abuse the rights of
business owners and their patrons. However, I have found
that the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act stands up for
the jobs and rights of Arizona small business owners and
workers. It is a plan that prohibits smoking without
abusing the rights of businesses and ignoring the
realities that exist.
My interest in this matter comes from my position as a
worker in a bar. I know firsthand that customers like
mine will either not go out or do so less often if they
can not smoke. I also know that I am not alone; many
other businesses like mine would face similar hardships
if a total smoking ban goes into effect. I made the
adult choice to work in a place, and I don't need the
government to tell them how to run their business to
protect me.
Employees have choice. They can choose to work in a bar
which allows smoking, or in a bar which prohibits
smoking. Either way, they will know in advance whether
smoking is going to be allowed.
Please join me in voting YES on the Arizona Non Smoking
Protection Act
Marlene Gastineau, Tucson
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
Smoking is a big deal and sometimes it is hard for
people to talk about it. As a bar worker I know this
from first hand experience. I don't know how many times
I've tried to talk to my customers about it, and
everyone has their own opinion.
I am well aware of the concerns about smoking and so are
my fellow employees. We've made the adult decision to
work in a bar and so our customers have made a similar
decision when it comes to the choice to smoke. It's a
reality of where we work that customers who smoke are a
vital part of business.
The best option for Arizona is that proposed in the
Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act. We need a reasonable
smoking policy for all of Arizona. It would prevent
smoking in all public places, yet would take into
account the realities of life by making exceptions for
places like a bar.
I really want everybody out there reading this to take
the time to think about what makes the most sense for
everyone involved. I'm certain that the Arizona Non
Smoking Protection Act is the best answer for Arizona.
Paula Johnson, Tucson
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
To: Interested Voters
Freedom of Choice is an American privilege, so intended
by the founders of our great country. That is the
purpose for which so many of our people have fought and
died over the past two hundred thirty years. Usage of
tobacco, which is a legal substance, is not the issue in
this statement. Individual rights are being infringed
upon and that is a frightfully serious charge to every
citizen of our country. The non-smokers are being
protected under current laws and regulations. Those who
wish to smoke are already informed of all the necessary
cautions and warnings, and have designated areas for
that activity. However, any one who wishes to smoke
should have the freedom to so choose and is entitled to
the space in which to indulge in their choice.
Non-smokers are entitled to their decision and can
choose whether they wish to frequent the space
designated for the smokers. Extended laws are not
needed, and government interference in the rights of our
citizens is not necessary to secure the freedoms we are
privileged to have and fight and die to retain. Vote YES
on this proposition and NO! NO! NO! on the Smoke-free.
Lois Richards, Scottsdale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voter,
As a Veteran and a longtime citizen of Arizona, I
support the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act to
preserve private property rights while protecting
non-smokers. The proposition is a reasonable and
consistent statewide non-smoking law that preserves
adult choice.
I fought for my country to preserve freedom and make
sure that everyone would be able to make choices for
themselves. I did not fight to support government bans
and restrictions on freedoms.
The act protects minors by preventing them from entering
any establishment that allows smoking. The act protects
non-smokers by only allowing smoking in bars where there
is a designated smoking area with a separate ventilation
system. The act gives future employees the choice on
whether to work in a bar which permits smoking or in a
bar which prohibits smoking.
Giving people options and reasonable regulation is what
our government is about. We fought and died to protect
these rights.
I encourage all Arizonans to support the Arizona
Non-Smoker Protection Act to preserve our freedoms. Vote
YES for Freedom!
Bill Burke, MSGT/USAF, Peoria
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters,
I own a Bar/Nightclub in Arizona with smoking patrons.
Hundreds of other family owned bars have the same
situation.
We pay taxes.
We invested hard earned dollars in our businesses.
We depend on customer's discretionary dollars to
survive or lose business with possible bankruptcy.
We desire a business environment allowing customer
choices.
Outdoor Smoking areas may not be feasible
logistically.
My concern is understandable when people talk about
passing blatant smoking bans. My customers also aren't
shy about their opinions on smoking bans preventing them
the freedom to make choices on establishments they want
to frequent.
Arizona needs a common sense approach to the smoking
issue, one respecting the rights of Arizonans, while
providing adult choices. Arizona's Non-Smoker Protection
Act proposes smoking bans in public places but provides
highly limited exceptions for places like tobacco shops
and my bar.
This is a good, fair act for businesses catering to
adults.
Acknowledging:
Smoking is legal.
Businesses with adult clientele choose to be a
non-smoking or smoking establishment. Business
economics and FREE enterprise dictate this.
Adults choose businesses they patronize.
Employees choose working in non-smoking/smoking
establishments.
America: FREEDOM of running my private business,
protected by the constitution, without private
interest groups/individuals enforcing personal views.
I strongly support this Act and recognize its efforts
are in the best interest of all smoking/non-smoking
consumers and businesses. The Non-Smoker Protection Act
is a balanced, reasonable, consistent, statewide
non-smoking law. The act prevents minors from entering
establishments that allow smoking - while preserving
adult choices on establishments they frequent.
It's a good plan for everyone. It protects FREEDOM for
individuals and businesses alike to make choices. Join
me in voting YES!
Marcia Wahlgren, a non-smoker, Peoria
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
To the voters of Arizona,
I am in support of the non-smokers protection act for
numerous reasons, none the least of which is the manner
in which each person can decide for themselves if they
want to patronize a smoking establishment or not, a
fundamental riught of our free society guaranteed in our
constitution.
The initiative allows for those establishments to enact
non-smoking sanctions thus ensuring their own percentage
of increased patronage as those who don't want to be
around smoking will enjoy those places of business smoke
free.
This act further blankets the state in a uniform rule
governing smoking and eliminates the need for
conflicting local regulations and therefore less cost to
the taxpayer for enforcement.
Lastly, not only are property rights protected ( as the
individual business owner can be free to wall off
designated smoking/non-smoking areas as clientele
demands) but allows the individual worker to decide
where he wants sto work and under what conditions; a
right protected by our constitution.
I urge all voters to join me in voting for the
non-smokers protection act as the best and only right
method to protect all citizens whether for or against
smoking.
Susan E. Compton, Tucson
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Arizona Voters and Veterans,
I remember not too long ago when it was perfectly legal
to go and smoke just about anywhere but in a hospital.
Back when I was in the military, the Government used to
give me cigarettes in my rations. Well, those days are
rapidly ending.
And you know what? I am okay with that. I accept that
there are some places that should be no-smoking because
it is a common place shared by non-smokers, minors, and
other people.
However, I think there are some places that should be
allowed to preserve the right to choose. I fought for
that right, and I think I deserve a few places that I
can go to enjoy a beer and an occasional cigarette if I
so choose.
Bars seem to be the last refuge for people who smoke in
public and the appropriate place to preserve this
choice. That's why I am supporting the Arizona Non
Smoking Protection Act.
This act creates a fair statewide standard which
protects small businesses, jobs, and one of Arizona's
largest industries, tourism while protecting minors and
non-smokers. It's a smart choice that preserves the
public places that everyone uses, while giving me a
place to go.
Richard Park, Glendale
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
Arizona politics is an interesting and bizarre thing. As
the worker in a bar there are certain matters of
politics that I can't help but be interested. One of
those issues is smoking.
Smokers make up an invaluable part of my customer base.
I am keenly aware of their interests and the portion of
my overall clientele that they represent. I choose to
work in this establishment, and I know the ramifications
of making this choice.
I could choose to work in a non-smoking bar if I wanted
to. However, I am free to make this choice, and I think
people should be free to make the choice to smoke, if
they want.
I work in a bar, not some place full of kids. I serve
adults who can make adult decisions. The Arizona Non
Smoking Protection Act helps protect kids and
non-smokers by prohibiting smoking in enclosed public
places and places of employment with a few sensible
exceptions such as tobacco shops and bars.
To those people trying to make the government look out
for me and my safety: Thanks but no thanks. I am an
adult and I can make my own choices. Other people should
too! Vote Yes.
Denise Bauldry, Sun City
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
I have been a bartender for several years. When I went
into this profession, I knew the kind of environment
that I would be working in. I recognized the fact that
smoking patrons may come along with the territory. I
chose to work in this environment. If I had everything
to do over, I would still choose to work in this
environment.
If I wanted or needed to work in a smoke-free workplace,
I would have chosen a non-smoking bar. I work at the
place I work because it has an eclectic mix of customers
that keep the bar interesting. We have a great core of
customers that come from the locals and people visiting
the area. When people walk into the bar, they know the
environment that they are entering. More importantly,
they choose to be in that environment.
The Arizona Non Smoking Protection Act preserves that
choice while protecting the rights of Non-Smokers. A
total ban will hurt me more than it could ever help me.
It is bad for me. It is bad for my customers. Please
Vote YES on the Arizona Non Smoker Protection Act.Also,
I am a former smoker.
Laura Anderson, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voter,
I own a tobacco shop. I serve my adult clientele by
offering them the legal products that they want to
purchase. I don't force anyone to enter my store and I
don't force anyone to use tobacco.
The most important aspect of being an American is having
the freedom of choice to engage in legal behavior in
public places. The great State of Arizona has a long and
proud history of respecting the rights of all
individuals, both smokers and non-smokers alike. I also
respect the rights of all individuals and I believe that
rather than banning smoking everywhere we should all
have the freedom to choose whether or not to patronize
an establishment that allows smoking.
Proposition 206 is a balanced law that protects
non-smokers and children by banning smoking in most
public places with a few exceptions, including bars and
tobacco shops. It is a uniform statewide standard.
Proposition 206 is smart and reasonable. It takes a good
idea and makes it practical.
Please VOTE YES.
Bart Gerber, Phoenix
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Dear Voters,
People in Arizona need to make sure they get their facts
straight on the smoking initiatives that will be on the
upcoming ballot. One of the laws is a blatant outright
ban, which restricts freedom and eliminates choice.
There is a better choice for voters this November.
The better choice is the Arizona Non Smoking Protection
Act. It will prohibit smoking in enclosed public places
and places of employment with a few sensible exceptions
such as tobacco shops and bars.
The Arizona Non Smoking Protection Act is a smoking law
that actually makes sense. It's a plan that would
replace the patchwork series of smoking policies in
Arizona and set a single standard for the whole state.
It also provides choice.
Workers and patrons can choose to be in a bar which
allows smoking, or in a bar that prohibits smoking.
Either way, they will know in advance whether smoking is
going to be allowed while respecting the rights of each
individual.
This just plain makes sense.
I hope you will join me and hundreds of other small
business owners in voting YES.
Mario Lizarraga, Florence
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
We should protect choice!
People in Arizona still smoke. It seems like this
shouldn't need to be stated, but I write today because I
fear that such common knowledge is simply being ignored.
As the owner of the Margarita Bay Bar, I'm telling you
it's true.
When people go to bars and clubs they like to smoke. Not
everyone does, but that isn't the point. The reality of
the situation is that a comprehensive smoking ban would
severely hurt the hospitality industry, its many
employees in the state of Arizona, and the families of
those people.
What's needed is a smoking policy that takes these
realities into account and makes sense; a policy that
bans smoking in public places, but makes the necessary
and appropriate exemptions for bars and tobacco shops.
The best choice for this is the policy put forth by
Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee. It's a common
sense approach that effectively prohibits smoking while
accounting for the realities of life in Arizona.
I ask that all of my fellow Arizonans take the interests
and good of the hospitality industry in mind as well as
the need for a common sense approach on this issue when
considering any possible smoking policy for Arizona.
There are numerous bars in a variety of venues that do
not allow smoking so non-smokers can enjoy a drink in a
smoke free environment. As for the issue of smoke in the
work place, my non-smoking employees are aware of the so
called hazards of second hand smoke yet choose to work
here and are supportive of this policy.
Another concern of mine is that I don't have the option
of building an outdoor patio to accommodate smokers as
many other bars are doing. This puts me at competitive
disadvantage.
join me in voting YES
Dennis Murphy, Margarita Bay Inc., Tucson
Paid for by "Arizona Non-Smoker Protection Committee"
Arguments "AGAINST" Proposition 206
ER DOCTOR SAYS "NO ON 206"
The health risks of exposure to second-hand smoke have
been proven by hundreds of scientific studies over the
past 20 years. So you would think that an initiative
that would restrict smoking in restaurants would promote
our health. But the so-called Arizona Nonsmokers
Protection Act is a wolf in sheep's clothing, and would
be better entitled "The Tobacco Industry's Heart Attack
and Cancer Promotion Act."
This weak act, funded by the tobacco industry, has four
major problems. First, it allows smoking in "separately
ventilated" sections of restaurants. Ventilation does
not protect workers in such areas (as documented
recently by the American Society of Heating,
Refrigeration, and Air Conditioning Engineers) and will
not prevent toxic smoke from drifting into the
"nonsmoking" sections. Second, it allows smoking in
bars, endangering both patrons and employees. Third,
this act has no method of funding or provision for
enforcement, allowing for noncompliance without penalty.
Fourth, this initiative contains a preemption clause
that rescinds portions of smoke-free laws already in
place in several local communities.
In recent years, the citizens of some 18 states have won
true protection from second-hand smoke. The people of
Arizona deserve the same. Unfortunately, the Arizona
Nonsmokers Protection Act fails to protect our health
and should be defeated.
Keith Kaback, M.D., Emergency Physician, Tucson
American Lung Association of Arizona Says Vote "NO" on
Proposition 206
For years, the tobacco industry has attempted to mislead
Americans. Now, tobacco giant RJ Reynolds is
specifically targeting Arizonans with a watered-down,
deceptively-titled initiative called the Arizona
Non-Smoker Protection Act. Their concern is not the
welfare of Arizonans, but rather their own bottom line.
What RJ Reynolds vigorously tries to keep out of the
public forum are the facts about the dangers of
secondhand smoke:
Waiters and waitresses have almost twice the risk of
lung cancer due to involuntary exposure to
environmental tobacco smoke (ETS).
Secondhand smoke is associated with serious health
effects including retarded fetal growth, asthma, lower
respiratory infections, lung and nasal cancer, and
heart disease.
Each year environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) kills
approximately 53,000 Americans.
Secondhand smoke exposure increases the risk of
bronchitis and pneumonia in children. The
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that
between 150,000 and 300,000 of these cases in infants
and young children are attributable to exposure to
secondhand smoke every year.
17% of lung cancers among adult nonsmokers can be
attributed to high levels of secondhand smoke during
childhood and adolescence.
After looking at the facts, we know that there is no
safe level of exposure to a Group A carcinogen such as
secondhand smoke. By opposing this initiative, you will
support the right of all Arizonans to breathe clean air
and lead longer, healthier lives. Please join the
American Lung Association of Arizona, American Cancer
Society, American Heart Association and the Arizona
Hospital and Healthcare Association in OPOSSING this
harmful initiative.
Charles Finch, D.O., Co-Chair, Arizona Board, American Lung Association of Arizona, Scottsdale
Keith Kaback, M.D., Co-Chair, Arizona Board, American Lung Association of Arizona, Tucson
Paid for by "American Lung Association of Arizona/New Mexico"
Health Groups Say Vote "NO" on Proposition 206
As the largest voluntary health organizations committed
to eliminating heart disease, cancer and respiratory
illness, the American Cancer Society, American Lung
Association, American Heart Association as well as the
Arizona Hospital and Healthcare Association are
adamantly opposed to Proposition 206, RJ Reynolds's Non
Smokers Protection Act. We ask you to join with our
thousands of volunteers and supporters in Arizona and
vote "NO" on this proposition.
Proposition 206 is a self-interested, loophole riddled
initiative funded by the tobacco industry. This measure
won't protect nonsmokers or our health, but rather
protect the profits of the tobacco companies. Smoke-Free
Arizona is the only measure that would create smoke-free
workplaces for every Arizonan and ensure a healthy
future for our children. The goal of Proposition 206 is
to keep Arizonans smoking in restaurants, bars and other
workplaces. It's about tobacco company profits, not the
protecting the public's health.
This misleading initiative would actually:
-Allow smoking in parts of restaurants, bowling alleys
and hotels where alcohol is sold as well as in bars.
-Rollback existing smoking protections in communities
throughout Arizona including Tempe, Prescott, Flagstaff
and Sedona.
-Provide for no designated enforcement agency for
implementing and enforcing the law.
-Prevent local communities from passing future health
protections against secondhand smoke.
The science is clear: There is no safe level of exposure
to secondhand smoke. The American Cancer Society, the
American Lung Association, the American Heart
Association, the U.S. Surgeon General, the U.S. Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention as well as countless
other health groups all agree that separating smokers
and nonsmokers in the same airspace is not effective.
Please don't be misled by this deceptive initiative.
Vote "NO" Proposition 206.
Sincerely,
Bill J. Pfeifer, Chairman, Smoke-Free Arizona, Tempe
Paid for by "Smoke Free Arizona Campaign"
American Cancer Society Urges "NO" Vote
Secondhand smoke is a public health hazard that causes
cancer, heart disease and respiratory illness.
Proposition 206 claims it removes secondhand smoke by
using ventilation instead of prohibiting smoking in
restaurants, bowling alleys and other establishments
where alcohol is sold. The tobacco industry sponsor of
Proposition 206 knows that ventilation technologies do
not protect patrons against the harmful effects of
breathing secondhand smoke. They are only interested in
confusing voters about the measure that truly will
protect us, Smoke-Free Arizona. The truth is the only
way to keep smoke out of nonsmoking sections is to
completely eliminate smoking indoors.
The evidence shows that ventilation is ineffective and
costly. No U.S. science agency has found that
ventilation systems reduce secondhand smoke exposure
on-the-job to an acceptable level. Even manufacturers
and sellers of air filtration technologies admit that
their products do not protect consumers from the health
risks imposed by secondhand smoke. Estimates for
creating dual ventilation systems to separate smoking
areas as required by Proposition 206 are from $30,000 to
$50,000. How many small businesses can afford that?
Proposition 206 does not protect the rights of
nonsmokers but rather will continue to allow for smoking
in our restaurants, bowling alleys, pool halls and bars.
The American Cancer Society believes that all Arizonans
have the right to breathe smoke-free air. History has
shown us that smoke does not know to stay in a
"designated smoking section" and simply separating
smokers from nonsmokers does not work. Please vote "NO"
on Proposition 206.
John Craft, Vice President of Prevention & Early Detection, American Cancer Society, Great West Division, Fountain Hills
Sharlene R. Bozack, Vice President of Government Relations, American Cancer Society, Great West Division, Tempe
Paid for by "American Cancer Society"
Argument against Proposition 206
Economic Impact
The tobacco industry and other supporters of Proposition
206 claim by exempting bars they are protecting these
businesses from the economic impact of going smoke-free.
This is a false argument. NO state and municipality that
has passed a smoke-free air law has seen a negative
economic impact as a result of the law. In fact, no
scientifically valid study has proven that smoke-free
laws negatively affect the bar industry . In New York,
the number of bars in the state increased by 3.5% after
their smoke-free law went into effect. In California,
restaurant and bar receipts have increased each year
since its smoke-free law was enacted in 1997.
One look at the details of Proposition 206 and it is
clear why RJ Reynolds, one of the largest tobacco
companies in the world, is spending hundreds of
thousands of dollars to support its passage.
The reason the tobacco industry is fighting a strong law
and supporting Prop. 206 is based on a different but
completely valid economic truth - when strong smoke-free
laws are passed, people smoke fewer cigarettes. That
hurts the tobacco industry's bottom line. In other
words, Proposition 206, if passed, would protect the
tobacco industry's profits while continuing to allow
workers and the public to be exposed to the deadly
chemicals in secondhand smoke.
The American Heart Association knows Arizonans will see
through RJ Reynolds' smokescreen and support the one
initiative - Proposition 201 - which protects all
Arizonans from secondhand smoke. Proposition 201 is the
only initiative supported by the American Heart
Association, American Cancer Society, the American Lung
Association and the Arizona Hospital and Healthcare
Association. Vote No on Proposition 206, and Yes on
Proposition 201.
Sincerely,
Karen LaPolice Cummins, Senior Vice President of Phoenix, Denver, Hawaii, American Heart Association, Scottsdale
Mary Lee Hyatt, Vice President, Heart and Stroke Initiatives, American Heart Association, Phoenix
Paid for by "American Heart Association, Inc."
BALLOT FORMAT
PROPOSED AMENDMENT BY INITIATIVE PETITION
OFFICIAL TITLE
AN INITIATIVE MEASURE
AMENDING TITLE 36, CHAPTER 6, ARIZONA REVISED
STATUTES BY REPEALING SECTIONS 36-601.01 AND
36-601.02; ADDING NEW SECTION 36-601.01; RELATING
TO SMOKING
DESCRIPTIVE TITLE
PROHIBITS SMOKING IN ALL PUBLIC PLACES AND PLACES
OF EMPLOYMENT; EXEMPTS BARS WITH SEPARATE
VENTILATION SYSTEMS THAT PROHIBIT MINORS, PRIVATE
RESIDENCES, TOBACCO STORES, DESIGNATED HOTEL/MOTEL
ROOMS, VETERANS/FRATERNAL CLUBS, NATIVE AMERICAN
CEREMONIES, AND OUTDOOR PATIOS; REQUIRES NO
SMOKING SIGNS; PREEMPTS LOCAL REGULATIONS;
ESTABLISHES PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS.
A "yes" vote shall have the effect of prohibiting
smoking in all public places and places of
employment while exempting bars that prohibit
minors and have separate ventilation systems,
private residences, tobacco stores, designated
hotel/motel rooms, veterans and fraternal clubs,
Native American religious ceremonies, and outdoor
patios, and will prohibit minors in bars that
allow smoking and will require no smoking signs be
posted where smoking is prohibited. YES
A "no" vote shall have the effect of retaining the
current laws regarding smoking in public places
and places of employment and leaving current
municipal smoking regulations in place. NO
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Spelling, grammar, and punctuation were reproduced as submitted in the "for" and "against" arguments. This text only version of the proposition guide may not include striking, underlining, emphasis and bolding of words in the proposition language, or in "for" or "against" arguments.
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