Smokers Will Be Smokers.

In response to Mariana Zubirias' blog post on smoking laws.....
       I understand that Texas' Government can regulate what we do in most cases. Such as giving punishments for driving while intoxicated, arresting parents who treat their children wrong/abuse them, not giving a driver's license to someone who failed the test, etc. But in this case, I have to disagree that this is a serious matter. Austin, TX and other cities already have bans on smoking in public places such as parks, and the "no smoking within 15 feet of a door to a public place." Those are all gravy, and understandable. Families take kids to parks and don't want smoke blown in their face. People walk out of a restaurant and don't want to smell smoke first thing after eating a good meal. I agree with those specific laws aimed at smoking.
        But how can government punish someone who smokes in their free time, in their home or in their car? Cigarette addiction consists of a mental addiction as well as a bodily craving. The nicotine withdrawals are rough, from what I have heard. The mind gets used to the habit to picking up a cigarette first thing in the morning, when a driver gets in their car, etc. It is not something most people can just put down and not have a second thought about. This, in my opinion, is nothing like driving while intoxicated, child abuse, or failing a driver's test. Because smoking cigarettes in your own private area does not affect anyone but the smoker themselves.
        If a smoker wants to smoke at a time and place where it won't affect or get all over other people, then so be it. Yes, it is absolutely bad for your health. But it is a choice that person makes to pick up cigarettes.