The Somerville City Council is currently examining the feasibility of establishing an ordinance prohibiting the use of tear gas by local law enforcement authorities.

While the proposed ordinance is only in the early exploratory stages by the City Solicitor’s Office, the idea is already generating a fair amount of discussion throughout the community.

Some are concerned that the proposed ordinance would unwisely constrain the police’s ability to exercise crowd control in cases of civil unrest or other circumstances where such a measure would ordinarily be used.

Advocates of the ordinance cite studies that indicate these chemical compounds can cause temporary debilitating irritation to the eyes, mouth, throat, lungs and skin. They point out that during most public demonstrations and protests there are invariably innocent bystanders who would be exposed to these toxic chemicals if they are deployed.

It is also contended that various alternative methods of quelling violent confrontations exist and should be considered the first line of defense in such situations.

It is certainly not in anyone’s best interests if the police cannot effectively defend themselves, law abiding citizens, and private and public property. It is only a question of safe and viable methodology.

Fortunately, Somerville itself has not experienced the type of social unrest that has been occurring in other cities as of late. Perhaps it never will.

Still, in the public’s best interests, it may be advisable to avoid the use of such toxic substances against our fellow citizens.