Cities of Monroe, West Monroe, Ouachita Parish Pass Smoke-Free Ordinances

I'd like to send a personal tip of the hat to the Ouachita Parish Police Jury, the Monroe City Council and the West Monroe Board of Alderman for passing their comprehensive smoke-free ordinances.

As a result, this will ensure all employees, including bartenders, gaming facility employees, and entertainers, will be protected from the dangerous effects of secondhand smoke in the workplace.

My hope is our local government here in Lafayette and the Acadiana area will follow suit. Why does the minority get to set the rules? Smoking is a personal choice and something allowed in this great country, however, it's invasive and harmful to other people.

Let's put an end to it. Smokers, just kindly smoke outside. Is that too difficult?

Agree or disagree, we'd love to hear what you think about this hot button topic. We'll gladly pass along the feedback to our good friend, Lafayette City-Parish President Joey Durel when we see him on Thursday morning.