[Headlines Only] [Top Stories Only]
Categories
· Smokefree Policies
· Op-Ed
USA, by State
· Kansas
Organizations
· Dhhs

KOH/PAREKH: Guest Blog: Kansas smoking ban gets thumbs up from HHS experts 

Jump to full article: Midwest Voices (Kansas City Star), 2010-03-15
Author: Howard K. Koh and Anand K. Parekh / Howard K. Koh and Anand K. Parekh U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

Intro:

This year, Kansas will grant its citizens an incredible gift -- the opportunity to breathe clean indoor air. Thanks to a historic vote by your legislature, most bars, restaurants and workplaces in the Sunflower State will be smoke-free by July 1. That means the vast majority of your residents will be protected against the harmful effects of secondhand smoke, whether they are at work or enjoying a meal.

We applaud the leadership of Governor Mark Parkinson and the many individuals and organizations who are committed to making a smoke-free Kansas a reality.

This action stems from science. . . .

With this new law in effect, Kansas will be saving lives, saving money, and protecting its residents. It now joins 23 other states, the District of Columbia and scores of municipalities in passing similar laws. Passage of such laws can change the social norm toward health and prompt smokers to reconsider the benefits of quitting. If you still smoke, cessation help is available at . You can also talk to your doctor about programs and medication or call 1-800-QUITNOW (1-800-784-8669).

Kansas has taken a public and powerful step toward public health. The state should know that its efforts are being recognized nationwide as the country moves toward a smoke-free future.

Jump to full article »