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County Executive's Office

Falk Statement: Dane County Smoking Ban Begins This Week

August 10, 2009
Joshua Wescott, Office of the County Executive (608) 267-8823 or cell (608) 669-5606
County Executive

Dane County Executive Kathleen Falk issued the following statement regarding this week’s implementation of a county smoking ordinance in workplaces, bars, and restaurants.   The ban takes effect August 15th and covers establishments in towns and unincorporated areas.  It is the only county smoking ban of its kind in Wisconsin.

“The ordinance that goes into effect this week is a significant step forward in improving the health of our citizens and our communities.         

Starting Saturday, those living in our 34 towns will join their counterparts in places like Madison, Monona, Fitchburg, Verona, Middleton, and Shorewood Hills in being able to breathe clean air both at work and over their Friday fish fries.  Implementation of Dane County’s ordinance means more than 75% of our county’s residents will live in areas that are smoke-free. 

By taking effect almost a full year ahead of Wisconsin’s state smoking ban, this ordinance will mean fewer workers and patrons being exposed to secondhand smoke, sooner.  Dane County created its ordinance in November, 2008, prior to the recently-enacted state law.

As County Executive of the only Wisconsin county to take this comprehensive action to protect and improve public health, I look forward to the day when everyone in our great state will be able to enjoy a breath of fresh air,” said Falk. 

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