Michigan: Smoking ban could cripple bar business

Found this posted at:  SmokersClub Forum Index -> Michigan

Like the post says, a little late.  They are spot on though. All those smug anti-tobacco activists think they are saving lives and their communities in the process.  In the end, the tax revenues that dry up as a result will have to come from some place else. 

Smoking ban could cripple bar business

Article comment:

"Ewwww, I Don't Like That" Said in a patronizing tone.

Posted by W J, Olympia,WA - Thursday, December 17, 2009 at 1:01 a.m.

I am originally from and grew up in the U.P.

I was aware that the Michigan Legislature was in the decision making process of approving or disapproving smoking bans.

Seriously considered writing to lawmakers to share plausible effects as the result of the toughest smoking ban in the country that was inacted in Washington State several years ago.

The current economic problems in the country but especially damaging in Michigan were of concern when I thought of a deeper downslide brought on by a possible smoking ban.

Have lived on the West Coast in Washington State for many years.

I remember the same arguments were given in this area such as a loss of business in bars/tavern's would only be short term and that revenue would actually increase overall.

The route I have driven every afternoon/evening when I return home from work through a business area that contains several bars/taverns has changed in appearance.

Before the "smoking ban" people socialized at these establishments but now when I drive by there usually is only one busy day instead of five and this was well before the economy took a downturn.

A previous comment was written by J.S. of Esky that the patrons would return later.

Actually, smokers now socialize with friends at home and do not patronize the bars.

I believe most smoker's would not have issue with not smoking in eating establishments but a bar is different.

Would it not be fair to require a sign be posted as to if a bar is smoking or non-smoking and possibly give some kind of incentive to a non-smoking establishment but let it be the choice of the owner?

Locally, all public places, to include outdoor auto racetracks, which have always had family and general sections, are non-smoking.

There has been a dramatic decrease in revenue due to smoking bans.

Once regulation gets a heavy hand it goes from one thing to the next. Issue is taken with many subjects from alcohol to riding motorcycles and noise volume, etc.

Now, the smoking ban probably has decreased the amount of smoking in this state, decreased tax revenue. As predicted by many in this area and now going into force, tax increases to make up for loss.

Michigan will suffer further.

It use to be so nice to come home to Michigan where people were not so uptight and tightly regulated.

Be ready for more and more tax increases due to lost revenue.