Legislation passes with overwhelming bipartisan support
Madison, May 14, 2009—Wisconsin workers are on their way to breathing easier thanks to Wednesday’s passage of a statewide smoke free law. The Senate voted 25 to 8 and the Assembly 61 to 38 in favor of making all workplaces in the state smoke-free including all bars and restaurants.
“This is a major victory for the people of Wisconsin. Our workers will be healthier and taxpayers will save money on tobacco-related health costs while also saving lives. It’s really a win-win for the entire state,” said Eric Schutt, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society.
Schutt said Wednesday’s vote is the culmination of years of effort lead by volunteers and various organizations including SmokeFree Wisconsin, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association and many others.
“For years people have been telling their lawmakers they want a statewide smoke-free law and Wednesday the legislature listened. Soon everyone will have the right to smoke-free air at work and in public,” said Maureen Busalacchi, Executive Director of SmokeFree Wisconsin.
If signed by the governor the law would go into effect July 5, 2010.
Secondhand smoke exposure is proven to increase the risk for lung cancer, heart disease and serious respiratory illnesses. Twenty-five states including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Montana have passed similar statewide smoke free laws as a matter of public health.
Holding Our Breath for Smoke Free Air is a statewide alliance of health, medical, business and civic organizations dedicated to advocating for a comprehensive statewide smoke-free law in Wisconsin. For more information please visit: www.holdingourbreathwi.com
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Bill would end all workplace smoking in Wisconsin
Madison, April 24, 2009—A new bipartisan statewide smoke-free workplace bill is being circulated for cosponsors in the Wisconsin Legislature. The bill was introduced today by coauthors State Senator Fred Risser (D-Madison), State Senator Mike Ellis (R-Neenah), State Representative Jon Richards (D-Milwaukee) and State Representative Al Ott (R-Forest Junction) and would end workplace smoking in Wisconsin including inside all restaurants and taverns.
“The introduction of this bill is an important step toward improving the health of all Wisconsin workers. Everyone deserves the right to breathe smoke-free air at work,” said Eric Schutt, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society.
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Support strongest among those who go out to eat or drink most often
Click here for full poll results
Marshfield, April 1, 2009—A new poll released today shows strong support for Marshfield’s comprehensive smoke-free ordinance. The poll found an overwhelming 77% of Marshfield residents favor the law, which passed on referendum one year ago today and applies to all workplaces, including bars and restaurants in the city.
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Support strongest among those who go out to eat or drink most often
Click here for full poll results
Appleton, March 23, 2009—A new poll released today shows strong support for Appleton’s comprehensive smoke-free ordinance. The poll found an overwhelming 75% of Appleton residents favor the law, which applies to all workplaces, including bars and restaurants, in the city.
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