New Survey Finds Majority of Minnesotans Support a Strong Statewide Smoke-Free Law
Posted on: Thursday, 18 January 2007, 03:00 CST
MINNEAPOLIS, Jan. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- A new survey released today by the American Cancer Society and ClearWay Minnesota(SM) found that 69 percent of Minnesotans support a comprehensive statewide smoke-free law that includes bars and restaurants. The survey also provides evidence that going smoke-free is broadly supported by Minnesotans from all leading demographics; similar responses were given regardless of geography, political and ideological affiliation, income, age and gender. The survey was conducted by Minneapolis research firm Decision Resources, Ltd.
"It doesn't matter where you live or who you voted for in November. The overwhelming majority of Minnesotans understand the health dangers of secondhand smoke," said Nancy Tyra Lukens, American Cancer Society Board Member. "Every Minnesotan -- and every worker -- deserves protection from the cancer-causing chemicals found in secondhand smoke. This survey clearly says Minnesotans are ready for a statewide smoke-free law that will protect everyone's right to breathe clean air."
Other key findings from the survey include: -- Secondhand smoke is viewed as a health hazard by a decisive majority of Minnesotans (81 percent). -- Minnesotans believe all Minnesota workers should be protected from exposure to secondhand smoke in indoor workplaces (82 percent). -- Strong majorities in every part of the state support a smoke-free law (73 percent in the Twin Cities metro and 65 percent in Greater Minnesota).
"I have been surveying Minnesotans on public policy issues for 23 years," said Bill Morris, President of Decision Resources. "The results of this survey are impressive because of the high level of support for a statewide smoke-free law across all groups of Minnesotans."
Advocates Rally at the Capitol
On January 30, 2007, hundreds of smoke-free advocates will come to the capitol for the Smoke-Free Minnesota Day at the Capitol. Advocates will hear from Dr. Dileep Bal, the architect of California's ground-breaking statewide smoke-free law, and then meet with legislators to discuss the importance of passing a strong statewide smoke-free law this year. This event represents an unprecedented effort and partnership among health plans, nonprofits and businesses to advance smoke-free legislation in Minnesota.
"The survey results confirm that the pressure is building for passage of a statewide law," said Tyra Lukens. "Communities across Minnesota, this summer's Surgeon General's Report on the Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke, voters in Mankato ... all are telling legislators loud and clear that it's time for a smoke-free Minnesota. The rally at the Capitol will be another strong demonstration of Minnesotans' desire to join the other 17 states that have passed comprehensive legislation to protect all workers from the harm of secondhand smoke."
For more information on the Smoke-Free Minnesota Day at the Capitol, please visit http://www.smokefreeminnesota.com/ .
Methodology
The study contains the results of a survey administered to 800 randomly selected 2006 voters across the state of Minnesota. Professional interviewers conducted the survey by telephone December 5-12, 2006. The results of the study are projectable to all adult Minnesota residents within +/- 3.5% in 95 out of 100 cases.
To view complete survey results, 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(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/ .
ClearWay Minnesota(SM); American Cancer Society
CONTACT: Kerri Gordon, ClearWay Minnesota(SM), +1-952-767-1403; or MikeMaguire, American Cancer Society, +1-651-255-8130
Web site: http://www.clearwaymn.org/http://www.cancer.org/http://www.smokefreeminnesota.com/
Source: PRNewswire
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