Libertarians Vow to Fight Smoking Ban on Private Property

Ban Violates Property Rights, Hurts Job Opportunities

AUSTIN - January 26, 2009 - The Libertarian Party of Texas has unveiled its legislative agenda for the 2009 session. Part of that agenda includes a vow to fight the smoking ban on private property.

"Only the Libertarian Party truly understands the concept of private property rights," explained LPT Chair Patrick Dixon, "Public property is owned by the federal, state, or local government. Private property is owned by an individual or business."

"Many people confuse the term public place with public property," notes LPT Executive Director Robert Butler. "A shopping mall or a restaurant are privately owned businesses, and the owner should decide what legal activities may be performed on his own property."

Libertarians do not contest the possible health effects of exposure to cigarette smoke. Many restaurants and bars have already banned smoking at the request of their customers.

"I take my children to restaurants like McDonald's who have voluntarily banned smoking for the well-being of their customers and employees," stated Butler. "Customers can vote with their feet when they don't like a business. Smart business owners will make the right decision about banning smoke on their property."

According to Radley Balko of the Cato Institute, a libertarian think tank, "Smoking bans mean fewer tips, lower wages and fewer jobs for workers. Given the choice between enduring secondhand smoke on the job and having no job at all, many cooks, bartenders and waitresses would prefer the former."

LPT Chair Patrick Dixon will be working with legislators to stop the ban. "Let's allow businesses to satisfy the demands of their customers without government interference. We're confident that they know what's best."

Contact: Pat Dixon, LPT Chair512-771-3936chair@lptexas.org

Contact: Robert Butler, LPT Executive Director512-704-7065 director@lptexas.com

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