The use of cigarettes and other tobacco based products have been linked to cancer, heart disease and other deadly diseases. Because they contain nicotine, an addictive drug, it is extremely difficult for an individual to kick this habit.
By banning the sale and distribution of cigarettes you eliminate the immediate threat to public health posed by these tobacco related products.
Tax revenue is the obvious reason that tobacco has not been banned, with revenue in the billions many feel that the economy will be negatively impacted. In truth the decrease in smoking related health issues will have a positive impact on the economy, not to mention former smokers will have more income to purchase other goods and services.
It is time to end the sale and distribution of these deadly products.