Smoke-Free Policy in Kentucky: Aren’t We There Yet? DPH and LHD Nurses Meeting June 20, 2013
No amount of secondhand smoke is safe. —U.S. Surgeon General Richard H. Carmona, Contains: Over 7,000 Chemicals Hundreds of Toxins 70 Known Carcinogens Causes: Heart Disease Asthma Attacks COPD DNA Damage & Cancer
Public Opinion: Where Are We? Source: Kentucky Health Issues Poll 2012, Foundation for a Healthy Kentucky
Public Opinion: Who Are We?
Local Ordinances Or State Law? Home Rule? Preemption? Exemptions? “The successful implementation of smoke-free laws in smaller communities lays the groundwork for the adoption of similar laws by larger cities and, ultimately, at the state level.” –CDC MMWR, Nov 16, 2012
Exemptions—Like Developing Drug Resistance? Pursue an ordinance Compromise—i.e. exemptions--feeling better? Exemptions become the standard—spread to other communities
HB190 Prohibited smoking in enclosed public places or places of employment Within 15 feet of entrances, exits, windows, ventilation intakes Included hotels, inns, and other accommodations rented to guests Was non-preemptive (allowed local ordinances & regulations to be more restrictive) Included e-cigarettes and hookahs
Progress… Passed Health and Welfare Committee with 11 votes Smoke-Free Rally at Capitol, February 14, 2013 Recommitted to House Judiciary—Why?
Judiciary Committee—March 4 Opportunity to address questions and objections: Constitutionality Private Property Rights Economic Impact Exemptions Progress… ….And E-Cigs
New CDC Tips from Former Smokers campaign ads. Jamason—Lexington, KY At age 16, secondhand smoke exposure at work triggered the most severe asthma attack of his life, hospitalizing him for four days.
Kentucky Smoke-Free Hospitality Video CDC Foundation
Indoor air quality is poor in Kentucky restaurants and bars that allow smoking.
E-Cigarettes—It’s just vapor?
What Now? Illustration: Juan Osborne
Angela Criswell, MA, CPS Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Program Manager Kentucky Department for Public Health (502) x4023