For Immediate Release:
March 26, 2003

Amidst rising public concern over the serious health consequences from exposure to secondhand smoke, the New York State Assembly overwhelmingly approved legislation (A.7136/S.3292), to prohibit smoking in all indoor workplaces including restaurants and bars.

"I am proud that with enactment of this legislation, New York State will again be at the forefront in addressing the significant public health hazard posed by secondhand smoke," stated Assemblymember Pete Grannis (D-Manhattan). "No New Yorker should be forced to choose between their job or their health. This is an historic measure which will allow tens of thousands of men and women employed in restaurants and bars to breathe easier."

"This comprehensive legislation responsibly addresses a serious public health issue in New York State," said Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver. "This new statewide standard will dramatically reduce the health risks associated with secondhand smoke and ultimately lead to safer social settings and workplaces for all our residents."

Passed by the Assembly after extensive negotiations with the Senate, the legislation closes loopholes in the state's Clean Indoor Air Act which left many working New Yorkers unprotected from the perils of secondhand smoke. Limited exceptions to the smoking ban will be provided for residential health care facilities, membership associations, cigar bars, outdoor dining areas of restaurants and facilities holding tobacco sampling events. The Assembly has passed legislation restricting smoking in restaurants and workplaces in the previous two sessions.

Assemblymember Richard N. Gottfried (D-Manhattan) stated "This legislation is a tribute to the persistence of Assemblymember Grannis and the anti-smoking advocates."

"The health risks associated with secondhand smoke are irrefutable. Protection from secondhand smoke exposure is warranted for all workers regardless of where they are employed," said Assemblymember Amy Paulin (D-Westchester).

Secondhand smoke, a known cancer causing agent, claims the lives of 63,000 non-smoking Americans each year. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified second hand smoke as a class A carcinogen, placing it in the same classification as asbestos.

The bill is strongly supported by the New York State Restaurant Association and is the top priority for numerous health organizations statewide.

Following enactment, New York State's law will be on track with smoking policies already in place in California and Delaware. Taxable sales data from the California Board of Equalization has shown increases in sales for eating and drinking establishments each year since the smoking bans have taken effect. Stringent smoking bans have passed recently in New York City and Nassau, Westchester and Suffolk counties.

Source

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