HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0746.048 2000-2002
11/20/2002 14:36 8089359780 AMERICAN CANCER PAGE 01
Donna Chalmers t f
HCR 3 Box 11074 " y
Keauu, Hawaii 96749
808-966-4452 (phone & fax)
November 20, 2002
Dear County Council Members,
I am writing to express my support for the new bill relating to stroking in the workplace
(Bill 260). I have both personal and professional reasons for supporting the bill.
As a resident of the Big Island, I have been appalled when I have gone out to join friends
for celebrations, which are held in bars. Last year, when I. was at a local bar the tobacco
smoke was so thick that I my eyes burned and I had to wash my hair twice when I got
home. As such, I have never been back. I make it a policy to stay away from places
where smoking is allowed because of the health hazards. I also remember the days
fifteen years ago, when I worked in an advertising agency on Oahu. My supervisors
would smoke in meetings in closed rooms with me present. I did not think it was fair to
too at the time. Nor do I tb.in.k anyone who is simply trying to earn a living should be put
in that situation in the year 2002.
As an employee of the American Cancer Society, I am aware of the tremendous
docurnented health hazards. posed by second hand smoke. It is responsible for about
3.000 lung cancer deaths in non-smokers each year.
I understand and can empathize with the fears of the restaurants and bars that feel this bill
will jeopardize their business. However, studies from over 80 cities and municipalities
showed going smoke fat°ee did not impact the revenues of restaurants and hotels before
and after the smoke free ordinance went into effect. In addition, a study by Stanton A
Glantz from the University of California investigating whether the smoking ban had
farmed the bar business said, "Quite the contrary these laws appear to be good for
business."
Thank you so much for considering this bill, which will create healthier workplaces.for
Big Island employees.
Donna Chalmers
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