To the editor:

I want to congratulate the city commissioners for having the courage to investigate, and I hope unanimously recommend, clean indoor air in Lawrence.

According to the EPA, both asbestos and secondhand smoke are Grade A carcinogens, meaning “known to cause cancer in humans.” Everyone is terrified of asbestos, and it is legally banned from all workplaces and buildings in the United States. Secondhand smoke should be banned in all buildings and workplaces, as well.

Knowing the medical facts, it seems there should be NO objections to a smoking ban in Lawrence.

The only two issues cited are economic concerns and personal freedom issues.

Regarding economics, studies show neutral or positive profits in restaurants and bars after a smoking ban. A 2001 survey conducted for the Douglas County Community Health Improvement Project (CHIP) revealed that 90 percent of county citizens favored a smoking ban in all workplaces.

We do not have the “personal freedom” to bring asbestos into any workplace, let alone into a restaurant. We should not allow “personal freedom” to subject others to another known carcinogen, secondhand smoke.

Another consideration: People with respiratory disabilities are guaranteed the personal freedom to work at any job without toxic air, according to the American Disabilities Act.

Every citizen in Lawrence deserves a workplace free of asbestos, and a workplace free of an equally harmful carcinogen, secondhand smoke.

We need clean indoor air 24 hours a day for all workers and customers. Nothing less will suffice.

Dr. Lida Osbern,

Lawrence