For Immediate Release
February 7, 2006
For More Information
Rep. Annazette Collins (217) 782-8077
Kelly Thompson, American Heart Association
Cell (217)836-3706, kelly.thompson@heart.org
Shayne Squires, American Cancer Society
Cell (217)494-6274 Office (217)546-7586
Kathy Drea, American Lung Association
Cell (217)971-7272
COLLINS INTRODUCES BILL
MAKING ILLINOIS SMOKE-FREE
SPRINGFIELD – State Rep. Annazette Collins (D-Chicago) introduced legislation Tuesday making Illinois smoke-free by prohibiting smoking in all workplaces throughout the state, including bars and restaurants.
“This is a historic day for Illinois public health,” said Collins. “We have an opportunity today to save thousands of lives by introducing smoke-free legislation that offers all employees protection from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Currently, a patchwork of laws govern smoking in the state. It is time for a comprehensive statewide approach to this critical health issue.”
Collins believes that a comprehensive clean indoor air law will guarantee equal protection to all in the workplace and reduce the health effects directly related to secondhand smoke exposure, including increased risk for cancer and heart disease. Collins’ bill is supported by a broad statewide coalition including the Illinois State Medical Society, the American Cancer Society, the American Heart Association and the American Lung Association.
“This is a rare opportunity to consider legislation that will save lives, eliminate suffering and reduce lung disease for generations to come,” said Harold Wimmer, President and CEO of the American Lung Association of Illinois.
“We applaud Rep. Collins for taking this step forward by introducing legislation to protect the rights of all Illinois citizens to breathe clean air and to provide protection from cardiovascular disease,” said Joni Clark, Ph.D., an associate professor of neurology with Southern Illinois University Clinics in Springfield and President of the American Heart Association Board of Directors. “This issue has reached a critical tipping point in our state, and polling data shows the majority favor comprehensive
smoke-free laws.”
More than two-thirds of Illinois voters support a statewide law that would eliminate smoking in all indoor workplaces. More than 40 percent of the U.S. population is now protected by strong smoke free air laws, and more than 10 states are completely smoke-free.
Collins Introduces HB 4338 2/2
“The Illinois State Medical Society is proud to voice its strong support for House Bill 4338 and the effort to make Illinois 100 percent smoke free,” said Craig Backs, President of the Illinois State Medical Society. “We urge the General Assembly to enact this bill and protect the health of citizens of this state.”
Secondhand smoke kills an estimated 65,000 people nationally each year, making it the third leading cause of preventable death in this country. An eight-hour shift in a facility that allows smoking is equivalent to smoking 16 cigarettes. Workers exposed to secondhand smoke are 20 percent to 30 percent more likely to develop cancer. In Illinois, eight people die every day and about 2,900 people die each year from the effects of secondhand smoke.
“Secondhand smoke is a health hazard,” said Dr. Ermilo Barrera, president of the American Cancer Society’s Illinois Division. “Our priority is to protect the health of all Illinois employees, especially those who work at restaurants and bars where smoking is prevalent. No one should have to compromise his or her health to earn a living.”
Independent economic studies, involving 12 different states, reveal that smoke-free laws have a neutral or positive impact on the hospitality industry. Customers consistently cite a preference for smoke-free establishments.
"We voluntarily went smoke-free January 1, 2006 to assist the local Springfield smoke-free coalitions in its efforts to pass 100% smoke-free ordinances,” said Michael Higgins of Maldaner's Restaurant. “We've now passed a comprehensive ordinance in Springfield, and we strongly support creating a level playing field for all business owners in Illinois while protecting our employees' and patrons' health at the same time."
“Surveys show that Illinois residents support stronger safeguards from secondhand smoke,” said Collins. “Chicago and Springfield have already passed smoke-free ordinances, and more than 40 communities across Illinois are considering similar legislation. These are significant accomplishments, but we cannot continue to jeopardize employees’ health by waiting for towns to individually enact ordinances.”
House Bill 4338 will be considered by members of the Health Care Availability and Access Committee on Tuesday, Feb.7.
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