Business, tourism, and employment rise in smokefree NY; Air much cleaner

Yesterday, a coalition of twenty-eight health groups ran a 2-page ad in support of New York's smokefree workplace law. The ad cited studies showing increased business, tourism, and employment in New York since going smokefree, as well as a 93% reduction in air pollution levels in New York bars. The ad also quoted major polls showing overwhelming support for the law among New Yorkers. For example, Zagat Survey reports that 96% of those surveyed are eating out as much or more often since the smokefree law took effect. According to data referenced in the ad, the number of bars and restaurants licensed in New York to sell liquor went up from 16,126 to 16,315. The number of people employed in bars and restaurants increased by 2,800. The amount of business taxes paid by restaurants and bars rose 12%. And tourism in general is up 6%. The logo at the bottom of the first page read, "I Love SMOKEFREE New York" next to a sign that said "4,800 toxic chemicals have been removed from NY restaurant and bar menus." The logo at the bottom of the second page read, "Now you can work, eat, and play smoke-free in New York" next to a picture of a pen, a fork, and a bowling pin. The simple truth is that most people prefer to breathe clean air. Yes, there will always be restaurants or bars that lose money or go out of business, but it's probably not clean air that caused their problems. NEW YORK RESIDENTS ONLY (please) To send a letter in support of smokefree New York, go to www.smokefree.net/NY To send a letter urging health officials not to issue waivers, go to www.smokefree.net/waivers To report a violation of New York's smokefree workplace law, go to www.smokefreeNY.org OUTSIDE OF NEW YORK To send a letter in support of smokefree air where YOU live, go to www.smokefree.net/alerts.php

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