Mini-Editorial: Philadelphia butts halfway out

September 20, 2006

Some would call it a new day for the City of Philadelphia, a welcomed change in a city already rife with the pollution of mayoral corruption scandals, accusations of being the nation’s fattest city and our ever-complicated and frustrating roads and highway systems. Others would say it prohibits them from partaking of something they enjoy that is by no means illegal. Either way you look at it, the smoking ban signed by Mayor John Street on Sept. 14 is a hotly debated topic with wide-reaching effects on smokers and non-smokers alike.

The Collegian supports Mayor Street’s signing of the bill, as well as his criticisms of it, saying that it does not go nearly far enough. As it stands, the ban is extended over all places of employment within the city, as well as stadiums, galleries, restaurants and most bars. The exemption in question is for places such as bars and clubs where 90 percent of revenue comes from alcohol. These establishments can apply for waivers that would void the ban within their premises. After his signature was affixed to the ban, it went into effect January.

The Collegian lauds the efforts of city council, as well as Mayor Street, in these endeavors, but is disappointed at the compromise, the inconsistencies, necessary to get the bill passed. It seems almost as if city government is saying that smoking is a public health hazard, that we must protect our citizens from themselves, but not in this case or that case. It seems, plainly, that the city has set up a ban that would protect children and the elderly from the deadlier effects of second-hand smoke, but then punches holes in its own efforts by being willing to make exceptions in certain cases. Be clearly for it, be clearly against it, but the Collegian urges city council to at least be clear.

We celebrate with the city government in this decision that has taken six years of political wrangling in production. We welcome with open arms new days of smoke-free meals, cleaner lungs and pleasurable dining experiences—-in all places, not just some.