HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0013.138 2002-2004
06/13/2003 12:35 808935980 AMERICAN CANCER PAGE 01
RE(~ ` i`d's D
Donna Chalmers
I-1CR 3 Box 11074 '03 JUN 13 P(1 12 38
Keaau, Hawaii 96749
966-4452 home/935-9763 work C(~UPv i;Lr=ith
COUNTY c iF HAWAII
June 13, 2003
Council Chairman James Y. Arakaki and Council Members
Hawaii County Council
25 Anpuni 5trcct
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Dear Council members:
1 am writing in support for the bill relating to smoking in the workplace (Bill 260) before the
County Council (Hearing date: ,Tune 18, 2003 in Kona.). I have personal and professional
reasons for supporting the bill.
As an employee of the American Cancer Society, I am aware of the tremendous health hazards
posed by secondhand smoke and smoking. Second hand smoke is a class A Carcinogen just like
Radon and Asbestos. This moans they have been proven to cause cancer. Secondhand smoke is
responsible for about 3,000 lung cancer deaths in non-smokers each year.
When I first started working 25 years ago, my supervisors use to smoke around me. This
oc...,..: more than one working environment. In fact, in three of my six jobs 1 have been
exposed to second ha~td smoke. At that time, 1 did not have a choice, it was either work with the
smoke or don't work. Today, many people are still stuck in this same situation, at offices,
restaurants, and bars. They are trying to make a living; just like I was; yet they must continue to
put their lives at risk.
Personally, I now stay away from establishments where there is tobacco smoke. Last year when I
went to a local bar for a birthday celebration. the smoke was so thick and irritating that I vowed
to never go back. I a,n not the only one. A USA Today study showed more than half of
Americans say they regularly avoid places to avoid cigarette smoke. Places they avoid include
bars/lounges, nightclubs and restaurants.
Everyone should be able to work in a safe and healthy environment. Bill 260 can give them this
opportunity.
Domta Chalmers
comm. No.
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