CHICAGO—Despite cries of economic hardship by the state hospitality industry, analysis of smoke free communities have found no economic impact on the bar and restaurant industry. Illinois PIRG (Illinois Public Interest Research Group) today released a white paper that highlights some of the studies conducted and independent economic data collected around the country where similar smoke-free laws have been implemented.
"There's no need to speculate or rely on anecdotal stories about the impacts of smoke-free laws," said Brian Imus, Senior Policy Advocate with Illinois PIRG. "Past experiences, and scientific studies conducted in dozens of communities provides clear evidence that there is no significant economic impact on the hospitality industry."
In addition to a compilation of studies, the paper highlighted independent data collected around the country where smoke-free policies have been implemented.
• Employment in Delaware's food service and drinking establishments increased in 2003 following the implementation of the state's Clean Indoor Air Act, according to the Delaware Department of Labor.
• New York City's restaurants and bars added 10,600 jobs while sales tax receipts increased by 8.7 percent since going smoke free, according to the New York City Department of Finance.
• Rhode Island's bars and restaurants generated 20 percent more tax revenue in the first quarter following the implementation of the state's smoke free law in March 2005, according to the Rhode Island Division of Taxation.
Just a half hour of secondhand smoke exposure causes heart damage similar to that of a habitual smoker, according to the Journal of the American Medical Association. The Office of the Surgeon General and the U.S. Task Force on Community Preventative Services have concluded that the most effective method for reducing secondhand smoke exposure is to establish smoke-free environments.
"Limiting smoking in public places will save lives," stated Imus. "The Chicago City Council should pass the Clean Indoor Air Ordinance in the form it passed the Health Committee."
