MINNEAPOLIS, March 5 /PRNewswire/ -- As two of the state's leading health groups that supported the passage and implementation of the Freedom to Breathe Act, we are pleased that the Minnesota Department of Health has strongly denounced so-called "theatrical performances" in bars as a violation of the Freedom to Breathe Act.
"The Freedom to Breathe Act was passed to protect employees and patrons from the known dangers of secondhand smoke. So-called "theatrical performances" in bars clearly undermine the intent of the law and place people's health at risk," said David Arons, the American Cancer Society's Director of Government Relations.
Minnesotans overwhelmingly stand behind this law and do not want to go backwards when it comes to allowing secondhand smoke in workplaces. A recent survey conducted by ClearWay Minnesota found that 76 percent of Minnesotans support the Freedom to Breathe Act.
"We applaud the Department of Health's commitment to protecting Minnesotans from the dangers of secondhand smoke in the workplace," concluded Kerri Gordon, ClearWay Minnesota's Public Relations Manager.
ClearWay Minnesota(SM) is an independent, non-profit organization that improves the health of Minnesotans by reducing the harm caused by tobacco. ClearWay Minnesota serves Minnesota through its grant-making program, through QUITPLAN(R) Services and through statewide outreach activities. It is funded with 3 percent of the state's 1998 tobacco settlement.
For more information on QUITPLAN Services, call 952-767-1400 or visit http://www.clearwaymn.org/.
The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. Founded in 1913 and with national headquarters in Atlanta, the Society has 13 regional Divisions and local offices in 3,400 communities, involving millions of volunteers across the United States. For more information anytime, call toll free 1.800.ACS.2345 or visit http://www.cancer.org/.
ClearWay Minnesota
