The introduction of Assembly Bill 935 in California, modeled on a similar New Zealand law, to ban all tobacco sales to those born after 2007 has sparked controversy among voters. While supporters argue that it is a necessary measure to improve public health and prevent the next generation of Californians from becoming addicted to smoking, opponents see it as an infringement on individual rights and personal freedom.
Assemblyman Damon Connolly, the author of the bill, argues that the phased tobacco ban is a measured solution to address the widespread issue of youth tobacco addiction. He also notes that the bill is similar to laws passed in New Zealand and Norway, which have set tobacco bans for all those born after 2009 and 2000, respectively.
However, some tobacco companies and retailers have expressed concerns that the bill would restrict the rights of smokers from using legal products. Others have taken a more nuanced view, noting that the bill only bans sales and not usage and that it may be difficult to control.
Opponents of the bill argue that it is a prime example of Democrats’ policies that seek to control voters’ lives. They see it as an attempt to copy the socialist government of New Zealand, which they view as a negative model. They also argue that the bill violates individual rights and personal freedom by restricting access to a legal product.
As the bill is assigned to Assembly Committees for further discussion and debate, it remains to be seen how voters will respond. It is clear that this issue is a controversial one, with strong opinions on both sides. While some see it as a necessary measure to improve public health, others view it as an infringement on individual rights and personal freedom. Whatever the outcome, it will be a decision that will affect the lives of millions of Californians for years to come.
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