Why have smokers been able to get away with giving other people lung cancer for so long?

With the new smoking ban in force, smokers are complaining that their human rights are being infringed. What about non-smokers' human rights to not get lung cancer? Passive smoking kills!!!

As a non smoker, I couldn't agree with you more. :)

Ok, what we have here is one of the oldest and most powerful industries in the U.S. influencing not only public policy but also public opinion. The tobacco companies power and wealth pre-date the Constitution. So...yes, we seem to have a high tolerance for smokers. That is because big tobacco has thrown so much money at our politicians. This is a symptom of the bigger disease. Your question might be better phrased like this:

"Why do Americans allow wealthy special interests and corrupt politicians to dictate how they will live?"
I dont know. Why dont you get down off your soap box and learn about it from the begining before you start judging peoples motives?
(Non smoker here by the way....just not interested in joining a mob)