Legislator comment:
As you know, the proposed Tobacco 21 Law, has been tabled. I think it was the correct thing for our Legislature to do and I applaud my peers for doing so.
My primary objection to moving forward with the adoption of this law is the ability of our constituents to appear and have their voice heard. Monday afternoon at 2PM is not the most convenient time for the average working taxpayer/citizen to attend.
Most of the 19 speakers that were heard represented either a business forum or a health committee. Many had already made their position known in writing to us before the meeting was held. Obviously they have a right to be heard and I fully support that. My opinion is that the voice of the public was muted by having a hearing at that hour.
Our Legislature has decided, over the duration of my tenure there, many “hot” topics. I have had few instances, when interacting with the public, that have generated as much discussion as this issue. I firmly believe that an evening Public Hearing is in order with, yes, the possibility of a reasonable time limit (More than 3 minutes) published and adhered to. If someone can’t get their point across in 10 or 15 minutes I think they need to edit their material. Handouts along with a spoken presentation work best. Everyone that wants to be heard should be allowed the opportunity to do so.
Tabling this issue gives each of us the opportunity for more discussion and research. It will also give us time to plan for a public forum that I believe our citizens deserve. My efforts will be directed towards that end.
Thank you,
Karl Graves, Legislator
District IV
