Is Your State Smoke-Free?

Jan 05, 2011 by Brooke McMillan

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We all know that smoking kills. Worldwide more than 5 million people die from tobacco- related illness each year. However, many do not realize the impact secondhand smoke has on those around them. According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 600,000 people die worldwide each year from secondhand smoke- two-thirds of which are children. A number of countries, US states and municipalities have passed indoor smoke-free workplace laws to protect their citizens from second-hand smoke. Is your state on the list?

Map courtesy of The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

Currently, 29 states have comprehensive, smoke-free workplace laws which eliminate smoking in all indoor workplaces including restaurants and bars. These laws, along with local ordinances, protect approximately half of the U.S. population. The second largest state and LIVESTRONG?s home base, Texas, is prime to go smoke-free this year. LIVESTRONG is heavily involved in passage of a strong smoke-free workplace law for Texas and will host an advocacy day on February 2nd. If you are a Texas resident and are interested in getting involved, stay tuned for a volunteer opportunity within the week. If you are not a resident of Texas and want to be a part of smoke-free efforts in your home state, check out Americans for Non-Smokers’ Rights and The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and get involved. Let?s protect the other 50% of Americans who should be guaranteed the right to breathe clean indoor air.