Alaska is dying for a statewide smoke-free workplace policy

Publication Date: 2014-04-04

• Author:Michelle Sparck
• Publication:Alaska Dispatch

We take our smoke-free air for granted, until it is in our face, or more disturbingly, in our childrens faces. We all have a right to the expectation of smoke-free air...

The state of Alaska currently does not have a strong smoke-free law. However, many communities have passed strong local laws. The City of Bethel was one of the first communities to opt for a smoke-free law, three years after his death, in 1998. Anchorage, Klawock and Haines Borough have passed 100 percent smoke-free laws that cover all workplaces, including all restaurants and bars. It is still too much that only half of Alaskas population is covered by a current smoke-free workplace law. No one should have to choose between their health and a good working environment...