Smoke Free in Other States
Different states and municipalities across the country have passed nonsmoking ordinances, and their experiences are useful for businesses in King County considering going smoke free or preparing for a possible ban on smoking. See what’s happening in other places.
California
Bar patrons in California support the state’s smoking ban, and evidence shows that support is growing. A survey of attitudes toward the smoke-free policy in California showed that the overall support for the law increased from 60 percent to 73 percemt from 1998 to 2000 [3].
New York
New York celebrated one year of smoke-free workplaces, including bars, in March 2004 [4]. Follow-up studies have disproved claims that the smoke-free policy would negatively impact businesses.
- The Department of Finance found in January 2004 that reported tax revenues from bars and restaurants increased by nearly 9 percent over the same period the previous year.
- The Department of Labor reported in July 2003 that about 2,800 seasonally-adjusted jobs in city bars and restaurants were created since the smoke-free workplace law was enacted in New York City.
- A study by Zagat reported in October 2003 that 96 percent of diners were eating out as often as before or more often.
- Polls by Global Strategy, Zogby International and Quinnipiac University show that New Yorkers in every political party, ethnic group and borough overwhelmingly support the new smoke-free workplace law.
- Smoke-free policies do not negatively affect tourism. USA Today reported in December 2003 that tourism is up in New York, and hotel revenues are up for the first time in three years.
- Air quality in smoke-free bars is comparable to air quality in other workplaces.
Other Smoke Free Locales
It’s not just New York and California. Many other cities, states and even countries have made the decision to go smoke free in public places. They include:
- Tempe, Arizona
- Pueblo, Colorado
- Delaware
- Hartford, Connecticut
- Massachusetts
- Lexington, Kentucky
- Rhode Island
- Helena, Montana
- Eugene, Oregon
- Ireland
- El Paso, Texas
Success Stories
Since going smoke free the Whistle Stop Ale House has attracted quality staff and loyal customers. Their bottom line increased by 40 percent in the first six months after they made the switch.
Read my story »
Read all stories »
Membership
Join the many others who have successfully made the smoke free switch and become a member of the Seattle Smoke Free Coalition.
Read about the benefits of
membership »