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Legislation passes with overwhelming bipartisan support

MADISON, Wis., May 14 — Wisconsin workers are on their way to breathing easier thanks to Wednesday’s passage of a statewide smoke free law. The Senate voted 25 to 8 and the Assembly 61 to 38 in favor of making all workplaces in the state smoke-free including all bars and restaurants.

“This is a major victory for the people of Wisconsin. Our workers will be healthier and taxpayers will save money on tobacco-related health costs while also saving lives. It’s really a win-win for the entire state,” said Eric Schutt, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society.

Schutt said Wednesday’s vote is the culmination of years of effort lead by volunteers and various organizations including SmokeFree Wisconsin, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association, the American Lung Association and many others.

“For years people have been telling their lawmakers they want a statewide smoke-free law and Wednesday the legislature listened. Soon everyone will have the right to smoke-free air at work and in public,” said Maureen Busalacchi, Executive Director of SmokeFree Wisconsin.

If signed by the governor the law would go into effect July 5, 2010.

Secondhand smoke exposure is proven to increase the risk for lung cancer, heart disease and serious respiratory illnesses. Twenty-five states including Minnesota, Iowa, Nebraska and Montana have passed similar statewide smoke free laws as a matter of public health.

Holding Our Breath for Smoke Free Air is a statewide alliance of health, medical, business and civic organizations dedicated to advocating for a comprehensive statewide smoke-free law in Wisconsin. For more information please visit: www.holdingourbreathwi.com

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