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No Smoking Act Leads To Drop In Smokers
74 Percent Of Tennesseans In Favor Of Smoke-Free Law, Says Poll
POSTED: 8:55 am CDT October 1,
2008
UPDATED: 8:31 pm CDT October 1,
2008
NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- On Wednesday, health officials celebrated the anniversary of Tennessee's non-smoker protection act, which they said is big reason there's been a near 3 percent drop in the percentage of smokers.
Watch This StoryTennessee's health commissioner said the point of the smoking ban was never about getting tough on those who smoke, but about protecting the 75 percent of people in the state who she said do not."We know that second-hand smoke is dangerous. It can lead to chronic diseases. It can lead to certain cancers," said health commissioner Susan Cooper.The health department said it continues to enforce the law, and so far about 700 businesses have received warnings. Eight of the businesses have been fined.The law is optional for restaurants and bars that only serve people who are 21 and up.According to a poll in May, 74 percent of Tennesseans are in favor of the current smoke-free law.The Department of Health said since the smoking ban went into effect, there has been a big increase in the number of calls to the Tennessee Tobacco Quit hotline from those looking to kick the habit.People looking to quit smoking can call 1-800-QUIT NOW to receive help.
Watch This StoryTennessee's health commissioner said the point of the smoking ban was never about getting tough on those who smoke, but about protecting the 75 percent of people in the state who she said do not."We know that second-hand smoke is dangerous. It can lead to chronic diseases. It can lead to certain cancers," said health commissioner Susan Cooper.The health department said it continues to enforce the law, and so far about 700 businesses have received warnings. Eight of the businesses have been fined.The law is optional for restaurants and bars that only serve people who are 21 and up.According to a poll in May, 74 percent of Tennesseans are in favor of the current smoke-free law.The Department of Health said since the smoking ban went into effect, there has been a big increase in the number of calls to the Tennessee Tobacco Quit hotline from those looking to kick the habit.People looking to quit smoking can call 1-800-QUIT NOW to receive help. Copyright 2009 by WSMV.com. All rights reserved.
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