Currently, there are still places where residents in Jefferson Parish go out to unwind and have fun — bars and casinos — that are currently not smoke-free. A recent article by Marie Fazio stated, “Smoking has been outlawed in restaurants and workplaces in Louisiana since 2006, but the law exempts bars and casinos. More than 30 parishes and municipalities, including Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Alexandria, Monroe, West Monroe, Hammond and Ouachita Parish, have since closed the loophole.”
Jefferson Parish is growing with new businesses sprouting up consistently, but consistent growth requires addressing quality-of-life issues — allowing all residents to enjoy the freedom of patronizing any indoor space safely and free from the dangers of secondhand smoke. The effects of smoking in Louisiana alone cause a strain on the economic stability of the state. These include:
- $1.89 billion in annual health care costs
- $803 million in Medicaid costs
- State and federal tax burden of $1,262 per household
- $2.49 billion in productivity losses
If citizens want a better quality of life — which includes healthy living and economic growth — they can take a stand for clean air.
DR. EARL BENJAMIN-ROBINSON
senior director, Tobacco Control & Prevention, The Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living
director, Louisiana Cancer Research Center Office Community Outreach of Engagement