EDITORIAL: Snuff out AB 414

Publication Date: 2005-06-10

• Author:EDITORIAL
• Publication:(Ashland, WI) Daily Press

But in endorsing Assembly Bill 414, and passing it on to the full Assembly, lawmakers are passing a bill that would allow no smoking ordinances stricter than state laws.

AB 414 is endorsed by the Tavern League of Wisconsin, but opposed by the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Wisconsin Medical Society, League of Wisconsin Municipalities, Wisconsin Association of Local Health Departments and Boards, Wisconsin Public Health Association, Wisconsin Restaurant Association and the Wisconsin Department of Health and Family Services.

Wisconsin tobacco control and prevention groups -- funded in part with state grants -- have been working diligently to protect public health in Wisconsin by encouraging communities to pass smoke-free ordinances. Their good work shouldn't be undone. The Legislature should stick this bill in the ashtray.