Stinky Smokers

While I almost never discuss politics on this blog, those who know me know that I prefer that, to the greatest extent possible, the government stay out of our hair. So, for example, I favor low taxes and detest stupid regulation (like banning aluminum bats or trans fats).

Having said that, it is my humble belief that the government can't tax cigarretes enough. I say, impose a new $10 federal tax per box. (Of course, I don't really say that because I know that imposing such a tax would result in the development of a huge black market; but you know what I mean).

What has raised my ire so much? A few things.

Yesterday, a woman on the LIRR platform was smoking a cigarette as the train approached. Having no option to move, we were forced to inhale her disgustring second-hand smoke. Yech.

Today, I attended an all-day seminar. Unfortunately, sitting next to me was one of my colleagues, an otherwise fine young man whom I call Mr. Ashtray. He went outside to smoke after every single panel and I was forced to sit next to him and smell his stinkiness for the next forty five minutes until he could refresh the stink.

(Indeed, I love all aspects of my job except the fact that four of my twelve colleagues are human chimneys. I constantly have to attend meetings in smelly rooms.)

So, bring on the tax. Who says I have to be consistent?