Best of: How is Illinois’ health 15 years after the smoking ban began?
Tobacco products, along with signs warning of the local tobacco law, are displayed at a convenience store in Woodridge, Ill., Jan. 11, 1995. (AP Photo/Beth A. Kaiser)
On January 1, 2008, the Smoke-Free Illinois Act went into effect. It prohibits smoking in public places and workplaces, both inside and within 15 feet of entrances, exits, and windows. Supporters of the bans at the time touted the health benefits of banning smoking, pointing to the effects of secondhand smoke, for example. Opponents of the bans worried about the effect they would have on businesses, like restaurants and bars. But what once was controversial now seems all but commonplace.
This conversation originally aired on March 13th, 2023
GUESTS
Kristina Hamilton
Director of Advocacy, American Lung Association in Illinois and Iowa
Angie Bailey
System Director of Community Health with Southern Illinois Healthcare
Marilynn Martin
Co-owner, Mary Lou’s Grill, Carbondale
Pete Gwizdala
Illinois Licensed Beverage Association (ILBA) State President; Owner, Crazy Times Pub & Grub, Machesney Park