Sheriff Oversteps His Authority

"Sheriff Ben Johnson [Volusia County, FL -RT] proposed barring new hires from lighting up while on the job or at home. Johnson said it's important for his deputies to be in good shape for their physically demanding jobs. He is also proposing routine physical fitness tests." The key words here are "or at home." What the hell gives this sheriff the idea he can dictate what his deputies do on their own time, at home? I know he thinks he's doing something good, as most "do-gooders do." But "doing something good" doesn't make such a thing right, or legal. If he doesn't like his deputies smoking, he should start an education campaign to discourage smoking. Banning smoking at work or at home is exceeding his authority and there is no authority in law that allows it. Somebody should tell this jerk the "facts of life." (Newsvine, 11/20/07)