PLATFORM : Smoking a la Carte

If the city prohibits smoking, 17% to 20% of the customers at Los Angeles restaurants will go to restaurants in neighboring cities. I have customers who could go to establishments that would continue to allow smoking--restaurants in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood and Santa Monica, for example.

Medical studies have shown that secondary smoke affects the health of those permanently exposed. For example, the nonsmoking spouse of a smoker is at risk. However, there have been no studies on nonsmoking customers who are exposed to smoke in restaurants. Also, because there are separate sections for smokers, most non-smokers are not exposed to smoke at restaurants.

I’m not opposed to a smoking ban if it is done fairly. If neighboring communities also banned smoking, no restaurant could take advantage.

It is already difficult enough for restaurants to survive in the current stressful economic environment. The city has to consider that businesses and jobs in the restaurant industry are at stake.