Reader: Lawmakers helping stamp out smoking

Joseph Matis
August 6, 2007
Felma Arceneaux
August 8, 2007
Joseph Matis
August 6, 2007
Felma Arceneaux
August 8, 2007

Dear Editor,


I am writing to thank Louisiana State Legislators for ensuring that the public and a majority of Louisiana’s workers continue to be protected from the dangers of secondhand smoke exposure.

During the recent legislative session, two bills were introduced that could have significantly weakened public health protections granted by The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act. Our representatives listened and sided with the 81 percent of registered voters who favor the fact that The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act eliminates smoking in all Louisiana restaurants and the 78 percent who appreciate that the law requires most workplaces to be smoke-free.


The toll of tobacco in Louisiana is high and is growing.


Each year, more than 6,400 Louisiana residents die from tobacco-related diseases. Of that total, 100 deaths are related to secondhand smoke exposure.

With the passing of The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act in 2006, our state legislature proved that Louisiana can indeed lead, not lag, when it comes to protecting a majority of workers and the public from secondhand smoke exposure.

To all legislators who support the right to breathe smoke-free air, thank you for putting the health of Louisiana’s employees, children and families at the forefront and for upholding the secondhand smoke protections provided by The Louisiana Smoke-Free Air Act. Thanks to you, change is in the air.

Tante Chatman

Thibodaux Area Regional Coordinator

The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living