It is time to make casinos smoke-free

When CVS announced it would stop selling tobacco products, I was relieved. It was inspiring to see the company take action for the betterment of their customers' health and their shareholders' bottom line. It's time for the state of Iowa to do the same.

Now, let's get the smoke out of our casinos. Like it or not, casinos are an important part of our economy and their workers' health is important to all Iowans. There's no good reason that Iowans should turn a blind eye to the ongoing health risks posed by indoor smoking. These risks include exposure to dozens of cancer-causing chemicals, like benzene and formaldehyde, not to mention a greater risk of heart disease and stroke. Indoor smoking also means a greater chance of developing emphysema and respiratory illness.

Why do I care? My Dad, who was a World War II veteran, died a tortuous death of lung cancer and emphysema in 1994, due to the fact that he got hooked on cigarettes as a soldier. On his death bed, he told me that if he could do it over again, he would encourage today's young people not to smoke. In any venue. Enough.

Bottom line? If CVS can kick the habit, I think that Iowans can, too. Let's get the smoke out of our casinos once and for all. Please encourage your local legislator to close the casino loophole. It's the right thing to do.

Amy C. Johnson

Cedar Rapids