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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2017 - 2018
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | January 31, 2017 10:41 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Matthew E. Baker |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Clean Indoor Air Act |
| In November of 2015, the Health Committee moved legislation which would close many of the exemptions which were found in the Clean Indoor Air Act (CIAA) of 2008. After lengthy discussion in Committee, it was clear that many stakeholders needed to be consulted prior to finalizing a draft of this bill. Over the last year, I have worked closely with the American Lung Association, the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society, Cancer Action Network, and Breathe Free Pennsylvania Coalition in crafting an agreed upon bill. After discussions with committee members and the stakeholder groups, I now plan to introduce legislation which addresses many of the concerns which were expressed during last session. This includes addressing cigar bars, cigar lounges, outdoor spaces, and locations where minor’s frequent – with the understanding their lungs are more susceptible to damage from second hand smoke. The legislation will still close the loopholes for casinos, private clubs and drinking establishments. Additionally, I have included the use of electronic cigarettes within the definition of smoking. Finally, this legislation would still remove the state preemption language and give all political subdivisions the ability to enact smoke free ordinances that are more protective than state law. With this change, Pennsylvania would join 39 states that do not preempt local governments from adopting more stringent smoke free rules than state law. Please consider cosponsoring this important legislation. |
Introduced as HB1309