Why single out just one addiction? By Plly S. Browder

Excuse me, but am I the only person who sees the absurdity of the
measure before the Legislature declaring that it's OK for people to
drink alcohol and gamble their money away, but it's not OK for them to
smoke cigarettes while doing so? ("Panel won't budge on smoking ban in
bars," A3, April 24).

Addiction is addiction. The effects of alcoholism and compulsive
gambling are just as harmful as those attributed to smoking cigarettes.

Is this a moral issue or a health issue? If it's either, or both, the
state of California is totally inconsistent in its restrictions on
tobacco, while ignoring other equally harmful pleasures.

POLLY S. BROWDER
La Jolla