Secondhand smoke exposure affects customers, patrons and employees. Indiana passed the state’s first statewide smoke-free air law in 2012. The law restricts smoking in most public places. However, the law still leaves many workers unprotected from the dangers of secondhand smoke.
Secondhand smoke contains more than 70 carcinogens (cancer-causing agents) as well as thousands of chemicals and toxins. Research consistently shows that there is no safe level of secondhand smoke exposure.
Public health agencies, including the U.S. Surgeon General and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, support comprehensive smoke-free air policies to protect the public from the dangers of secondhand smoke.
A comprehensive smoke-free air policy would include workplaces and sites including: bars, fraternal clubs, private clubs, tobacco retailers and tobacco specialty shops,
State and local governments have a responsibility to protect the health of their citizens. Every citizen and employee should be afforded the right to work in a safe, smoke-free environment. A comprehensive smoke-free air policy protects citizens and employees. Your support will help to move Kosciusko County and our cities and towns toward a healthier community.
Heidi Blake
Program Director, Kosciusko County Tobacco Free Coalition
