A Smokefree Work Environment

As we reported last week, Eagle reversed their initial vote to protect their workers from the harms of secondhand smoke.  While we are disappointed in the final vote, we are undeterred and will be stepping up our action in the coming weeks!  So, keep your eye out for us.  If you would like to help in anyway, please feel free to contact us! 

Make your disappointment known by contacting the Eagle City Council at eaglecity@eaglecity.org

Smokefree Idaho says ALL workers have the right to breathe clean air

Boise, ID – Smokefree Idaho is disappointed that the Eagle City Council last night failed to protect all workers in Eagle from the dangers of secondhand smoke by refusing to approve a comprehensive clean indoor air ordinance, but remains undeterred in its efforts to ensure that all Eagle City residents have the right to breathe clean air.

Smokefree Idaho is disappointed that the Eagle City Council last night failed to protect all workers in Eagle from the dangers of secondhand smoke by refusing to approve a comprehensive clean indoor air ordinance, but remains undeterred in its efforts to ensure that all Eagle City residents have the right to breathe clean air.

 

The need for protection from secondhand smoke in all workplaces and public places has never been clearer. Secondhand smoke contains more than 4,000 chemicals, including at least 69 carcinogens. In Idaho alone more than 200 people die each year from exposure to secondhand smoke, which is nearly equivalent to those killed in motor vehicle accidents. The difference is that we can prevent exposure to secondhand smoke. 

“Secondhand smoke is a known public health hazard and no one should have to choose between a job and good health,” says Shauneen Grange, Smokefree Idaho Campaign Manager. “All credible evidence we’ve seen from other states and cities demonstrates these laws don’t hurt businesses – in many instances, they have a positive effect on business.” 

 

More than 300 cities and 27 states have passed similar laws, including communities in Wyoming and Texas as well as the entire state of Montana. A comprehensive smokefree ordinance in Eagle City would only add to the quality of life and livability for which Boise Valley has become known.  

 

Moving forward, Smokefree Idaho remains in discussions with cities throughout the Treasure Valley to institute strong smokefree laws that protect the rights of all Idaho residents to breathe clean air.

 

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After over a year of work by a group of dedicated volunteers Eagle is set to become the first city in Idaho to become smokefree.  By a vote of 3-2 the Eagle City Council passed a preliminary local ordinance prohibiting smoking in bars, all businesses, 80% of hotel rooms, semi-private nursing homes and all public outdoor places.  The final vote will take place on June 23. 

In addition, the Eagle City Council will issue a letter to the Idaho State Legislature urging them to address the issues proposed in the ordinance on a statewide basis. 

Please take the time to thank the Eagle City Council for their willingness to look at this important public health issue.  (link to eagle city council email - under take action)

Now it is time to keep the momentum going.  The work has only begun as we shift our focus to Boise, Meridian and Garden City.  Get involved today.  We have volunteer events happening throughout the month and are planning a large celebration on July 1^st marking the 5^th anniversary of the enactment of the original clean indoor air act.  More information to follow.

Welcome to our new website. We’ve redesigned the site so it is easier for you to navigate. We encourage you to sign up for our monthly newsletter so we can keep you updated on our activities to make Idaho a smokefree state.

Eagle City Council Meeting
Tuesday, June 9
6:30 pm

Eagle City Council will consider proposed language to make Eagle the first smokefree city in Idaho. Email the Council members today and plan to attend the meeting Tuesday to show your support

Eagle City Council
660 E. Civic Lane
Eagle, ID 83616