HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0013.057 2002-2004 May 6, 2003
Michael Chang
P.O. Box 5562
Hilo, Hawaii 96720-8562
808-959-1708
Chair, Fred C. Holschuh, MD & Committee Members
Human Services & Economic Development Committee
Hawaii County Council
Dear Honorable County Council Members,
I am writing to express my support for the new bill relating to smoking in the workplace
(Bill 260).
As the President of the East Hawaii Unit of the American Cancer Society, I am painfully
aware of the tremendous documented health hazards posed by second hand smoke. This
alone is responsible for about 3,000 lung cancer deaths in non-smokers each year.
Being a former business owner in Hilo, I can empathize the fears business owners and
understand the concerns those operating eating and drinking establishments may have.
However, studies on the potential impact of a passage of this type of bill from over 80
cities and municipalities showed going smoke free did not impact the revenues of these
establishments 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 harmed the bar business said, "Quite the contrary these laws appear to
be good for business."
I am also grateful to my emplo}'er, who has a smoke free workplace policy in effect at
our place of business. It wasn't long ago when I would be present in a meeting filled with
smoke. Today, 1 think the workplace is much healthier and creates an atmosphere to be
more productive.
As a resident of the Big Island, our family has discontinued going to places like the
bowling alley and to only choose smoke free restaurants when joining family and friends
for a meal out. We make it a policy to avoid places where smoking is excessive because
of the health hazards.
Thank you so much for considering Bi1126Q which I feel will create a healthier
environment to the people of our Island.
Si •ere y, ;
n,
' o
ael F.H. Cha
President, East Hawaii Unit ~
American Cancer Society Ref. Te~'~
Ref. Dafe