LETTERS: ATTITUDES INFLUENCED BY LAWS

To the editor:

Your editorial Nov. 14 addressed the proposed city ordinance regarding youth possession of tobacco products and cautioned against "quick fixes." You suggested that changing the attitudes of teen-age role models and their parents may be more effective than criminalization of tobacco possession. Attitudes, however, are influenced by law, which is why we as a society support possession consequences for alcohol and other drug use by youths. I agree with you that parents and peers are important influences on the decision-making of teens, and I believe that these parents and peers are in turn influenced by legal realities.

You pointed out that "as long as it is socially acceptable to smoke, they (teen-agers) will find a way to do it." The sad fact is that our society, through advertising, glamorization and unhealthy modeling by adults, continues to send mixed messages to our youth regarding use of tobacco, alcohol and other drugs. A clear and consistent "no use" message is the most promising approach to affecting youth decision-making, and this needs to be reinforced by the spiritual, educational, social and legal components of our society.

Jo Ann Emerson is a co-sponsor of recently proposed legislation (House Bill 2034) that includes a provision to prohibit possession by minors, including fines and loss of driving privileges to repeat offenders. This provision would likely constitute a clear "no-use" message to both teens and their parents.

The proposed city ordinance thus offers the City Council an opportunity to assume a leadership role in correcting the legal inconsistencies regarding "no use" of tobacco products. I commend the Youth Advisory Council and Chief Hetzel for presenting this opportunity to create a healthier community.

JIM MAGINEL

Cape Girardeau