Tobacco still rules in the Commonwealth

Thankfully, the Senate rejected a bill yesterday that would have banned smoking in many public places throughout Virginia. It was voted down by a tally of 26-14. While much of the nation has turned its back on the cash crop that made America possible, Virginia remains closely tied to the tobacco industry despite its recent struggles. While I am not a smoker, tobacco remains a product that lots of people want and should be free to use. I agree with Sen. Hawkins' assessment that restrictions should be made by the marketplace, not by the legislature.