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Congratulations, fellow Wisconsin residents! We live in the 27th state to pass a comprehensive smoke-free worksite bill that will protect workers from the health effects of second-hand smoke. Thank you to our elected officials who voted to take this step to protect the public’s health. We turn now to the important work of implementation for a successful smoke-free worksite policy in Wisconsin.
Successful implementation means that we discuss all the concerns of worksite owners, managers and employees. A previous letter writer brought up special circumstances related to outdoor sports venues, indoor sports venues, hotel, motel rooms and swimming pools. We look to policymakers and organizations like Smoke-free Wisconsin to help interpret the language adopted by legislators.
Successful implementation means that we continue to provide areas where those who choose to smoke can smoke without harming the health of others. Signage indicating these areas must be clear.
Successful implementation means that if a person who smokes decides to quit, we continue to have assistance available through local health care providers, employers and public services like the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line.
Successful implementation also means we track the success of businesses that fear they will see negative effects of a smoke-free workplace law to show them and the public that smoke-free workplace laws are good for business in Wisconsin, as they have been in all other localities.
We have 12 months for Wisconsin to implement a successful smoke-free worksite law. We hope to support public health, businesses and media in this implementation process.
Health initiative members are Roger Kwong, Leah Doyle, Brenda Rooney, Emile Phillips, Sharon Hampson, Lisa Sauer, Nancy Stevenson, Deb Olson, Sue Lynch, Ben Crenshaw, Susan Lundsten, Lacie Ketelhut, Jessica Boland, Doris Doherty, Doug Mormann, Todd Mahr, Bill Jones, Gary Gilmore, Bret Emmel, Paula Silha and Gayle Jago.
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