Commentary #2

Melissa Villareal wrote an editorial titled "Blog Stage 7" which discusses the matter on whether or not the city of Austin should reinstate the ban of plastic bags. Ms. Villareal argues that Austin should absolutely reinstate the ban on plastic bags. She does a very good in forming her argument around the fact that it is simply what is best for the environment. She also mentions that after the Notre Dame Cathedral burned down they were able to raise $850 million but efforts like that can't be matched for our environment and the well being of our future planet. The post was a well-formulated argument and I couldn't agree more with her.

Tobacco Purchasing Age?

     The Austin City Council unanimously approved a revision that would raise the legal age to purchase tobacco from 18, to 21 years old. The city ordinance is mainly being brought to question due to the recent uprise in e-cigarette and vape use amongst teens and young adults.
     I believe that this is a great idea and will elimate a majority of high schoolers being able to directly purchase any nicotine or tobacco products (since seniors in high school on average 18 years old).  By raising the age to 21 that elimates the oldest students within the public school system in Austin (18) and those in charge no longer having to worry about others in the school being able to purchase through older students.
      Overall the revision will be good in eliminating the majority of high school vape and e-cig users and will also indirectily aid in preventing some from smoking/ trying cigarettes.