Vermont expands smokefree protections!

Publication Date: 2009-06-02

Congratulations, Vermont, on your newly expanded smokefree law!

Governor Jim Douglas signed a bill for 100% smokefree non-hospitality workplaces on May 27. The new provisions will go into effect on July 1.

Residents and visitors throughout the Green Mountain State have enjoyed 100% smokefree restaurants and bars for several years now. Unfortunately, numerous employees have continued to breathe toxic secondhand smoke on the job, because smoking was still allowed in enclosed smoking rooms at some workplaces not open to the public. Thankfully, that has now changed.

Statewide advocates did a fantastic job of educating the public and convincing the legislature to strengthen the state law to close the smoking room loophole, and now many more Vermonters will breathe easier on the job.

ANR is very proud that Vermont is joining 19 other states that have enacted laws to provide smokefree air in all workplaces, including restaurants and bars.

What Can You Do to Celebrate these Successes?

1. Send a note of thanks to your state legislators and Gov. Jim Douglas for supporting smokefree air for protecting the health of Vermont's workforce. Click here to contact Gov. Douglas by email, letter or phone and click here to find the contact information for your state representative and state senator.

2. Help support ANR's efforts to fight for your right to breathe smokefree air. Donate $25 to ANR today to support smokefree air efforts in communities and states around the country. Then, send this email to two friends and neighbors to be sure they know the good news.

Thank you!