Will Grigg?s Liberty Minute

September 12, 2008

From Kanawha County, West Virginia comes a small but encouraging story of resistance to the Nanny State.

Two months ago, the County enacted a ban on smoking in public areas, including bars. In August, health inspectors had planned to conduct an operation called ?The Blitz? to check bars and clubs for smoking violations. But it was cancelled after somebody tipped off bar owners about the planned sweep.

Some bar owners have torn up warning citations in front of health inspectors. One bar owner posted a sign ordering health department employees to show ID before entering the premises, under threat of a civil complaint against those who don?t comply. Bar owners are organizing a court challenge to the smoking ban.

Smoking is a filthy and unhealthy habit, but those who indulge in it should be free to socialize with each other. The suffocating embrace of the Nanny State is much unhealthier than any personal vice.

Let us take back the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free.