In several states, legislation has been proposed that would make smoking cigarettes illegal. Critics of these proposed laws note that, in the United States, people should be able to engage in any activity as long as that activity does no harm to others. Based on this, the critics conclude that smoking cigarettes should remain legal.

Each of the following, if true, weakens the argument above, EXCEPT:

A. Exposure to smoke wafting from lit cigarettes or from the exhalation of a smoker - otherwise known as second-hand smoke - has been shown to increase the risk of lung cancer in non-smokers.

B. Smokers do not enjoy the same life expectancy as non-smokers, and therefore often leave dependants without a source of support when the smokers die prematurely.

C. Health insurance companies are forced to charge all customers more money to cover the costs of treating ailing smokers.

D. Some people who smoke cigarettes are known to also drive while under the influence of alcohol - an activity known to be very dangerous to others.

E. Homeowner's insurance premiums for all customers are more expensive because some smoker's are known to light houses on fire by not fully extinguishing cigarettes.

Source: Kaplan GMAT
Category: EXCEPT
Level: 600 - 700 / Medium (IMO)
OA: After some discussion.