LETTERS: TOBACCO DANGERS NEED TO BE TOLD

To the editor:

I recently read that the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the Food and Drug Administration has no authority to regulate the use of tobacco. The Supreme Court also stated the FDA had overstepped its boundaries in 1996 when it issued sweeping regulations for tobacco products. IN fact, it was said the FDA has already demonstrated the dangers of tobacco.

Already demonstrated? So they are saying that if the dangers of tobacco are demonstrated to a certain level, that is good enough and can then be forgotten? I believe tobacco causes huge problems in our society, especially for our youths. The dangers of this product should continue to be demonstrated. How can the Supreme Court say enough tobacco information has been received? I still see young children smoking in parks or behind schools. Obviously, it has not reached those children. I realize not every person will avoid the tobacco habit or quit, but I definitely do not believe the point has already been made.

If the Supreme Court does not think the FDA should have the authority to regulate tobacco, then who would? There needs to be someone to help protect our youths by way of information and regulations.

Until Congress can see the need to protect our youths, I ask for a few things: Support our local merchants in carding anyone under the age of 27. Talk to your children about the dangers of tobacco. Write your local members of Congress about your feelings on this subject. The only way things will ever change is if people stand up for what they believe and speak their mind.

AMANDA KELEMEN

Cape Girardeau