Wisconsin Celebrates 15 Years of Smoke-Free Indoor Air Law

On July 5, Wisconsin will commemorate a significant milestone: the 15th anniversary of its smoke-free indoor air law. This legislation has been instrumental in enhancing the health and well-being of the state’s population, according to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS).

“Whether working a shift at a local restaurant or heading out with family for a Friday fish fry, Wisconsinites and visitors to our state can rest easy knowing they won’t be exposed to secondhand smoke in public places,” stated Paula Tran, State Health Officer and Division of Public Health Administrator. She added that for today’s children, smoke-free businesses are so commonplace that it’s hard for them to imagine a time when smoking was allowed in public places.

The smoke-free law not only purifies the air in public areas but also fosters a tobacco-free culture among the youth, discouraging them from using tobacco products. Additionally, these laws are associated with a decline in health issues and hospital visits for those impacted by secondhand smoke, ultimately leading to reduced hospital expenses.

Secondhand smoke is known to contain over 7,000 harmful chemicals, including 70 carcinogens. It is responsible for over 53,000 deaths among non-smokers in the U.S. annually and is linked to severe health conditions such as coronary heart disease, stroke, and lung cancer. Children exposed to secondhand smoke face heightened risks of sudden infant death syndrome, respiratory infections, and severe asthma.

Public support for the smoke-free air law remains strong, with 75% of Wisconsin residents in favor. The law has also contributed to a significant decrease in smoking rates across the state, with adult smoking rates dropping from 19% in 2010 to 12% today, and high school student smoking rates plummeting from 17% to 3% over the same period.

“Wisconsin’s smoke-free law has stood the test of time, and in today’s age it’s rare for any law to enjoy the broad kind of support it has,” continued Paula Tran. “It’s important that the law remain in place so that Wisconsin residents of all ages and professions can enjoy smoke-free air in our public places for decades to come.”

For more information on how the DHS is working to prevent commercial tobacco use in Wisconsin, visit dhs.wisconsin.gov/tobacco. Individuals ready to quit smoking or using commercial tobacco products can seek free assistance and medications by calling the Wisconsin Tobacco Quit Line at 800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669).