MDCH Director, Chief Medical Executive Commend Legislature for Passing Smoke-Free Bill

The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) commends the Michigan State Legislature for passing a bill today banning second hand smoking in public places including restaurants and bars.  The bill passed both the state House and Senate with exemptions for Detroit casinos.  At the three Detroit casinos, however, smoking would be banned in their restaurants and hotels.  Gov. Jennifer M. Granholm is expected to sign the bill, which will take effect in May.

"Today, the state Legislature chose to protect Michigan's citizens from second hand smoke, which leads to major chronic illnesses such as lung cancer and heart attacks," said MDCH Director Janet Olszewski.  "The Legislature passed a strong bill that outright bans smoking in public places.  That decision shows that the health of Michigan citizens is a top priority."

Second hand smoke is the third leading cause of preventable death in Michigan and resulting in approximately 2,500 deaths.  When smoking occurs in the workplace, employees find they are exposed to cancer causing substances all day long.  Smoking-related illnesses in adults include heart disease, cancer, stroke, chronic lower respiratory illnesses, and diabetes.  Children and adolescents exposed to secondhand smoke can develop asthma, ear infections, colds and pneumonia.

The bill can create smoke-free environments, which can play a critical role in the prevention of smoking-related illnesses, especially among children.  In addition, smoke-free environments can prevent youth from starting to smoke and can encourage smokers to quit.

"The Legislature today has made a great stride forward toward building healthier communities for everyone in Michigan," said Dr. Greg Holzman, MDCH chief medical executive.  "This is a principle concept in public health and I am ecstatic that Michigan will be joining many other progressive states in becoming smoke-free."