SB 150 and AB 834 are statewide smoke free air bills that would prohibit smoking in all Wisconsin workplaces and public places.  They have both been approved by committee and are ready for a full vote in the Senate and Assembly.

However, Senate and Assembly leadership -- the members who decide which bills get voted on and which don't -- have prevented the vote from taking place. 

Even though 70 percent of Wisconsin citizens want smoke free workplaces.  Even though every major health organization and hospitality industry, including the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and the Wisconsin Tourism Bureau, support the legislation.  Even though it's the best thing that could happen to public health and bring down health care costs -- legislative leadership won't let their members take a vote.

Why?  In a word, the Wisconsin Tavern League, backed by tobacco industry giants like RJ Reynolds and Philip Morris, don't want the legislation.  They say it will kill tavern business, despite mountains of evidence to the contrary from over 20 other states with smoke free air laws.

Evidence from unbiased sources clearly demonstrates that when no-smoking laws are enacted, restaurant and bar revenues stay the same, or even improve.  That' makes sense, because only 20 percent of the population smokes.  That leaves a lot of potential new customers!  People who don't go out as often now because they can't stand the smoke.

Opponents also argue that it's an issue of "freedom."  We agree.  Everyone should be free to work in a smoke free environment.  What's more, there is no other product that has the same deadly health effects as tobacco smoke that we allow business owners to make the decision whether or not it's OK to expose their employees and customers to it.  It makes absolutely no sense.

And the solution is SO simple!  Just step outside to have your cigarette.  Is that asking so much?

Should the Tavern League be dictating public health?  We don't think so, and your legislators need to hear from you about it!

Tell them it's time to vote on SB 150 and AB 834.