John Street finally OKs Philly smoking ban

By Lauren McGlone
Collegian Reporter
September 20, 2006

“No smoking” signs are ubiquitous. They can be seen in libraries, theme parks and residence halls. Walk into any Philadelphia restaurant, bar or other public facility in just a few months, and you may be seeing even more.

After months of deliberation and indecisiveness, as well as support from health advocates such as the American Cancer Society, Philadelphia Mayor John Street signed the public smoking ban on Thursday, Sept. 14. The city of Philadelphia will soon be joining countless cities and states around the nation in the prohibition of smoking in public facilities.

The law had been passed by City Council in June, but still needed the mayor’s signature. Up until the moment Street actually signed his name, the entire city was unsure of his actions regarding the bill. Thursday morning was the deadline for the mayor’s signature. The bill was written by former City Councilman Michael Nutter, who Street has criticized for quitting City Council in order to run for mayor. Many critics believe that Street’s feud with Nutter caused the delay in the bill’s passing.

Councilman Frank DiCicco rewrote parts of the bill in order to compromise with the mayor. His additions exempt neighborhood bars and delay the execution of the ban until Jan. 8, 2007. DiCicco’s bill is still before City Council, but if passed, facilities may temporarily allow smoking once again.

The imminent smoking ban prompted reaction from both sides of the argument. Smoke-friendly businesses, particularly restaurants and bars, claimed the smoking ban would hurt their income, since such a large percentage of clientele take advantage of the smoking environment. Health advocates praised the bill as a significant step forward to a healthier America, hopefully lessening the exposure of non-smokers to second-hand smoke.

There are, however, exceptions to the law, which allow outdoor cafés to permit smoking on the property. Also, bars or clubs that receive less than 10 percent of their income from food sales may apply for an exemption.

The law-in-progress has been met with surprising approval from smokers.

Junior Tara Bevivino is optimistic about the smoking ban.

“As a smoker, I think [the ban] is a good idea. When people – smoking or non – are out in a smoking environment, they come home reeking of the stench of cigarettes. I think the smoking ban will make the atmosphere more enjoyable, even for businesses which may attract more non-smokers.”

Joseph Mascio , of the Mathematics and Computer Science Department said he believes the smoking ban will benefit everyone.

“The health of the city should be a primary concern of its government. Non-smokers will certainly benefit by not being in proximity to a proven health hazard. Smokers will have to adjust somewhat, and change their social lifestyle just a bit. Leaving a bar or restaurant for a short while to catch a smoke is not such an inconvenience compared to the health benefits this may bring others, and the health hazards this may avoid. Smokers still have the right to smoke, but they should not be entitled to endanger the health of others, who do not smoke,” said Mascio.

Non-smokers are even more pleased with this ban.

“I think this ban is great,” said freshman Cayleen Stuski. “People may take this opportunity as a chance to quit smoking. The second-hand-smoke rate may even decrease.”

mcglonel1@lasalle.edu