Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Managing Director John Hoctor
NASHVILLE, TENN. – “Musicians and hospitality workers are some of the only Tennesseans who are not guaranteed a smoke-free workplace due to an exemption in the Nonsmokers’ Protection Act of 2008. Yesterday the legislature passed legislation that would allow local governments in Tennessee to pass and implement ordinances making age-restricted venues such as bars and live music venues smoke-free.
“The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) supports this legislation because local communities and counties are uniquely positioned to meet the needs of the people in their communities. Communities should be able to pass laws that are proven to promote good health and well-being for their residents, including comprehensive smoke-free laws.
“ACS CAN thanks the legislature for passing this important legislation and encourages Gov. Lee to move quickly to sign this legislation into law. This legislation is the first of many steps to ensure that all Tennesseans are guaranteed a smoke-free workplace. ACS CAN looks forward to keeping the momentum going by working with local communities to pass comprehensive smoke-free laws.”
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.