From: Joe@smokefree.org
Date: Thu, 01/26/06
The following email from attorney Erik Bjornson explains the unintended effect
of a proposed amendment to Washington's smokefree workplace law proposed by the
state legislature. The law was passed overwhelmingly by voters last November.
To send a letter to your legislators, go to www.smokefree.net/WA Joe Cherner
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Dear Mr. Cherner,
As you know, Washington voters passed Initiative I-901 last year which enacted
comprehensive smokefree workplace legislation.
Unfortunately, some well meaning people are attempting to pass an exception
which would completely undermine the law.
The proposed amendment is presented as a religious exception. However, in fact
it would allow unlimited cigarette and cigar smoking in any building whatsoever
which had a religious ceremony going on.
Thus, even a 30 story building in Washington would turn into a smoking zone for
the duration of the ceremony.
Attached is the bill and a legal memorandum I drafted on the subject.
Unfortunately, the exception has not gotten much press and many health advocates
have not gotten past the title of the bill to see what it would actually do.
If you have any way to help out on this matter to retain Washington's smokefree
workplace law, please let me know.
Sincerely,
Law Office of Erik Bjornson
Ebjornson@msn.com
711 Court A Suite 114
Tacoma, WA 98402
www.tacomaattorney.com
"Maximizing results for clients"
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