Bars, clubs: Stop the smoke

The debate is finally over. The evidence is now indisputable that secondhand smoke is a serious health hazard.

According to a recently released report by the U.S. surgeon general, there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.

The surgeon general's report validates the longtime position held and advocated for by the American Cancer Society that smoke-free laws are the only way to completely protect the health of Utah's citizens, workers and patrons from deadly secondhand smoke.

The society salutes state legislators who have stepped to the plate, passing such laws to protect our citizens, the most recent of which amended the Utah Indoor Clean Air Act, extending smoke-free requirements to bars and private clubs. Even so, we know that every day smoking is allowed to continue in bars and private clubs.

To help employees and customers, we call upon proprietors of bars and private clubs to do the right thing and implement smoke-free environments in their establishments.

Michael L. Siler

director of government relations for Utah

American Cancer Society

Great West Division