TALLAHASSEE, FL – February 3, 2022 – A bill (HB105) aimed to make Florida’s miles of beaches and numerous parks smoke-free passed through a key Florida House subcommittee this morning with a unanimous vote from the House Environment, Agriculture and Flooding Subcommittee.
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), American Heart Association, American Lung Association and Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights and the Florida Tobacco-free Coalition submitted cards, alongside other environmental groups and localities, at the committee hearing in support of the legislation.
The below is a statement on behalf of ACS CAN in reaction and can be attributed to Susan Harbin, Florida Senior Government Relations Director.
“We’re proud of House subcommittee members for taking a critical step to ensure such a policy at a pivotal moment for public health.
“If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s the importance of respiratory health and the role public health policy plays to protect it, particularly when it comes to lung health. There are no safe levels of exposure to secondhand smoke and only smoke-free laws provide effective protection against its dangers.
“Ensuring a strong, statewide smoke-free policy that includes popular public areas like our beautiful beaches and parks is essential to protecting the public from the dangers of secondhand smoke. What’s more, it sets an example for the next generation and lead to fewer children and teens beginning to smoke and help support those who are trying to quit.”
The bill will be heard next by the House Health & Human Services Committee before reaching the House floor.