I found The Daily Collegian's March 21 editorial on smoking bans laughable ("Outdoor Smoking Bans: Government lacks power to legislate lifestyles," March 21). Banning public smoking does nothing except ensure that everyone is granted his or her "right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," which the editorial argues it impedes. I do not smoke, and I can't stand second-hand smoke. If public smoking is not outlawed, am I not forced to suck in the dangerous vapors? The Board of Opinion's assumption that I could just walk away or ask the smoker to move is laughable. Has anyone tried to ask a smoker to move? Most of the time you will be greeted by a smug glance or you will be otherwise ignored. Furthermore, if I am forced to move, I have been robbed of my liberty to stand where I wish.

The board has a problem with a law banning something that could kill innocent people just to convenience those who wish to harm themselves. Why not write about something more relevant that doesn't harm anyone? Regarding more pressing issues, including those that don't kill millions, I agree that, "it's time the government butts out."