NYS Department of Health press release prior to CIAA taking effect... State of New York · Department of Health |
ALBANY, July 23, 2003 - The New York State Health Department today announced that it has launched a new toll-free information line to help New Yorkers become more familiar with the Clean Indoor Air Act that takes effect tomorrow. The Clean Indoor Air Act prohibits smoking in public areas such as places of employment, bars, restaurants, enclosed indoor swimming areas, public transportation areas, youth and day care centers, among others. New York State Department of Health "New York has taken another historic step to protect and enhance the health of all our residents," State Health Commissioner Antonia C. Novello M.D., M.P.H., Dr. P.H. said. "The Clean Indoor Air Act will provide all New Yorkers with healthier, safer, smoke free work environments." The newly activated statewide toll-free information line, 1-866-NYS-CLEAN, or 1-866-697-2532, will provide information about the law and answer any questions callers may have. The information line is staffed from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Friday and 10 AM to 2:00 PM on Saturday. Information including local health department contacts, brochures, signage and "I Love Smoke Free NY" buttons can be obtained by contacting the number. In addition, the Department's web site, www.health.state.ny.us, now includes links to information that employers, the public and bar and restaurant owners will find helpful in understanding and complying with the new law. The web site includes three distinct guides about the Clean Indoor Air Act: one for the general public, another for employers, and one for restaurant and bar owners. The website also includes the full text of the law, and examples of signs that can be printed and posted where smoking is prohibited or permitted. Consumers can also link to the NYS Smokers' Quit Line web site for information about quitting smoking. These efforts are a continuation of the Department's aggressive campaign to increase public awareness of the law and to provide businesses and the public with the resources they need for effective implementation. Soon after the legislation passed in March of this year, the Department held several statewide training seminars for State and local health department staff responsible for enforcing the law. Training also was provided to community partners, including youth partnerships and community tobacco control coalitions who are also providing public education and outreach. The Department's public information campaign includes:
The Department also operates a toll-free Smokers' Quit Line at 1-866-NYQUITS, or 1-866-697-8487, that provides information and support for New Yorkers who want to quit smoking. Posted to this web site July 25, 2003 |
Web master TC Health Department Health Promotion Program Tompkins County Home Page T-Free: Tobacco Free Tompkins is funded by a NYSDOH grant to the Tompkins County Health Department (Page updated 2/24/09) |