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Massachusetts Breathes Easy as Smoke-Free Workplace Bill is Signed into Law
Workers across the Commonwealth started breathing easy on July 5th, when workplaces across the state became smoke-free. On June 18th, before a crowd of cheering advocates, legislators, and youth, Governor Mitt Romney signed landmark legislation at the State House that ensures that all workers, including those in bars and restaurants, can earn their living without having to breathe in deadly carcinogens as part of their job.
“This historic legislation levels the playing field for workers across the state,” said Dr. Carole Allen, Chair of Tobacco Free Mass. “Employees will no longer be required to breathe dangerous toxins and known carcinogens while at work. We applaud the Legislature and Governor Romney for clearing the air.”
More than 200 people attended the event, along with several legislators including the bill’s sponsors, Representative Rachel Kaprielian and Senator Susan Fargo, and Health Care Committee Chairs Senator Richard Moore and Representative Peter Koutoujian.
One hundred three communities, encompassing nearly 32 percent of the state’s population, already enjoy local smoke-free regulations. By enacting this statewide law, Massachusetts becomes the sixth state to go smoke-free, joining California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, and New York in setting the national trend for healthy workplaces.
