Public Smoking Bans
Many states and local governments have passed laws restricting or prohibiting smoking in public places. Many business owners have challenged the legality and constitutionality of public smoking bans claiming their rights under the Due Process Clause and Equal Protection Clause have been violated. Review and discuss the types of restrictions and limitations imposed by state and local governments. Present the arguments both for and against public smoking bans, including economic based arguments. Discuss the governmental authority suggested as a basis for this type of legislation, as well as the arguments that public smoking bans are an unconstitutional violation of the Due Process Clause and Equal Protection Clause.