Known as the "Smoking-ban Bill," HB06-1175 will ban smoking in private establishments across the state from restaurants to casinos. As expected, this controversial bill has raised a large debate on the government's right to impose on the private sector. Below you can read why I oppose the passage of this legislation.

Open Market vs. Over Regulation
-Implementing a state-wide ban takes that decision away from individual business owners
-Businesses should be able to make the decisions that will affect their customers and their ability to earn profits
-Every decision made at the state level to take away the decision-making power of a local government or a business increases the size and power of the state government

Local Control
-This should be a decision that is left up to individual towns, cities, and counties
-Colorado is a diverse state and there is no one-size-fits-all solution
-A smoking ban affects the local economy and could affect the livelihood of local businesses
-The decision should be made at the local level where the officials are familiar with the area and know the potential impact

Individual Autonomy
-The state should not be setting policy to influence the personal health decision of Coloradans
-A person should be able to make his/her own choice about whether or not to smoke
-The government should play a minimal role in the day-to-day activities of citizens