Smokers tax health system

As a self-proclaimed cigarette Nazi and health care professional, let me try and educate Mr. Allan LeTourneau on his claim they (smokers) pay “a hell of a lot more taxes than nonsmokers” (Letters, April 11).

Come to my office or any emergency room in town and observe our taxpaying smokers, emanating the stench of tobacco, the periodic swishing noise from their oxygen bottles and nasal prongs, the missing limbs from peripheral vascular disease and cardiac impairments. All provided by their increased tax contributions.

Then, when these purchased conditions deplete their health and resources, we cigarette Nazis get to pay for their health care as their productivity and vitality slowly ebbs away. Take a look at your workplace and see how many are absent more than present on the job due to one of the aforementioned problems.

Wonder why your health care costs are escalating, Mr. LeTourneau? Look in the mirror and seek the answer. It’s your right to do as you wish, but don’t make claims without the big picture.

Thomas K. Collins

Spokane