Jump to full article: Bellevue (NE) Leader, 2009-06-04
Author: Carrie Kreisler, Leader Managing Editor
Intro: It's official. Nebraskans can breathe easy thanks to the Nebraska Clean Indoor Air Act that took effect Monday.
To mark the occasion, Dave Holmquist, director of government relations with the American Cancer Society in Nebraska, kicked off a press conference Monday morning at Romeo's restaurant in Bellevue.
"It's a great day for the state of Nebraska," he said. "We've been waiting about 15 months to be able to say that Nebraska is smoke free."
Nebraska joins 15 other states in implementing a comprehensive smoking ban.
"The Nebraska smoke-free air law represents one of the greatest public health successes in our state's history," said Dr. Joann Schaefer, Nebraska Chief Medical Officer.
Now, the hazards of second-hand smoke will be eliminated in bars, restaurants and other indoor public places.
"In general, we will be healthier because of this law," Schaefer said.
Dr. Mark Kestner with Alegent Health Systems challenged people to encourage their family and friends to make their homes smoke-free as well.
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