Governor Doyle Calls for Smoke Free Legislation

The State of Tobacco: Governor Doyle Calls on Lawmakers to Pass Smoke Free Legislation This Session

Madison - In his State of the State address Wednesday night Governor Doyle again made clear his dedication to reducing Wisconsin's tobacco burden by calling on the legislature to pass a comprehensive smoke free bill this session.
The Breathe Free Wisconsin Act, ending smoking in all workplaces including bars and restaurants, passed a senate health committee earlier this month but needs action on the full senate floor.
"Protecting workers from the dangers of secondhand smoke, including increased risk of lung cancer and heart disease, is the critical last step in a series of steps made this session toward improving Wisconsin's public health,” said Alison Prange, Wisconsin Government Relations Director for the American Cancer Society. "We applaud the Governor for his continued commitment to giving everyone in Wisconsin the right to breathe clean air no matter where they work. We hope the legislature follows suit.”
The other two steps aimed at reducing Wisconsin's tobacco usage this session were the implementation of a new $1 per pack cigarette tax January 1st and increased funding to the state's tobacco prevention and cessation programs. Already these actions have been immensely successful. More than 9,000 people have called the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line in just the first two weeks of this month, more than all the calls for last year.
"The governor understands the whole scope of Wisconsin's tobacco problem from increased health care costs to the devastating loss of a loved one to lung cancer. His efforts to curb tobacco use are saving lives. We greatly appreciate his support,” said Prange.
The legislature now has until the end of March to deliver Doyle and the people of Wisconsin the comprehensive smoke free law they want.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1.800.ACS.2345 or visit www.cancer.org.
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