Assemblymember David Weprin has introduced a bill to prohibit smoking in cars when a minor under the age of 14 is present.
Of course, we can all agree that smoking in a car with a minor or anyone else for that matter is not a good idea, but does the state really need to insert itself into the role of protective parent in every conceivable situation?
It’s a good idea to feed kids properly and to dress them warmly in the winter. Should we legislate this by requiring vegetables during meal time and hats and gloves when the temperature falls below 32?
This paternalism by various legislators is simply getting out-of-hand. Between Mayor Bloomberg’s proposal to ban salt, Councilmember Leroy Comrie’s proposal to ban Happy Meal toys and Assemblymember Rory Lancman’s proposal to ban flat sheets in hotels and require only fitted ones, when is enough, enough?
May I suggest that these legislators focus their attention on a state economy that is in shambles, roads that are falling apart and a legislature that is dysfunctional with a history of corruption and scandals that is second to none.
My advice to voters: Elect the same people, expect the same results.
Bob Friedrich
Glen Oaks Village
