Statement by Rodney C. Osborn, M.D., President
Illinois State Medical Society
May 1, 2007
Re: “Smoke Free Illinois” Legislation, SB 500
The Illinois State Medical Society (ISMS) applauds the Illinois General Assembly for its passage of the “Smoke Free Illinois” bill, also known as SB 500. This legislation, aimed at protecting the health of Illinoisans, is one of the most important public health initiatives this year.
Every day, eight people in Illinois die from the effects of secondhand smoke. In addition, children who are exposed to secondhand smoke have higher rates of respiratory infections and increased number and severity of asthma attacks. Studies also show that employees who are exposed to large amounts of secondhand smoke at work suffer from higher rates of lung cancer and heart disease than the general public.
The “Smoke Free Illinois” legislation demonstrates a solid commitment to protecting healthy non-smokers from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke. We already have seen overwhelming local support for smoke-free communities. Now is the time to protect all Illinoisans. We respectfully request the Governor to sign this important legislation as soon as possible.
ISMS is a professional membership association representing over 13,000 physicians practicing in all medical specialties statewide. Dr. Osborn is an anesthesiologist practicing in Peoria, IL.