What is the Smoke-Free Arizona program?
- Helps educate businesses and assist them in coming into compliance with the Smoke-Free Arizona law.
- Provides free signage to local businesses required by the law.
- Investigates complaints of businesses violating the law.
Why is it needed?
Secondhand smoke kills more than 53,000 people every year, and can be a health hazard for people working in places where smoking is allowed.
Who is eligible?
- All local businesses and concerned community members
- Businesses that need assistance in maintaining a smoke-free environment
Is there a cost?
No, there are no individual costs. Arizona Department of Health Services funds this program with proceeds from tobacco taxes.
What are the goals of the program?
- Encourage businesses and people to find out more about the efforts to provide Arizona residents and visitors with smoke-free environments. Learn more at www.smokefreearizona.org .
- Ensure that local businesses comply with the Smoke-Free Arizona law by keeping indoor areas smoke-free, moving outdoor smoking at least 20 feet from doors and windows, and posting proper signage.
What has the program achieved?
- The program has sent informational packets (including free signage) to over 4,000 local businesses over the past 10 years.
- The program has investigated all violation complaints submitted online and by phone.
- The program has helped ensure that businesses provide healthier, smoke-free environments for their employees.
Who can I contact for more information?
For more information, to submit a complaint, or order free signage go to www.smokefreearizona.org , or contact Community Health Education.
Fast Facts:
There is no safe level of exposure to second-hand tobacco smoke. Neither ventilation nor filtration, even in combination, can reduce the exposure indoors to levels that are considered acceptable. Only 100 percent smoke-free environments provide effective protection. (World Health Organization)