The following statement can be attributed to Ally Lopshire, government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network.
SPRINGFIELD, IL - “This week, the House and Senate passed companion legislation adding e-cigarettes to Illinois’s existing smoke-free law. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) supports this legislation which will prohibit the use of e-cigarettes everywhere that smoking is prohibited under the state smoke-free law. ACS CAN supports everyone’s right to breathe clean smoke-free air.
“E-cigarettes pose a potential risk to people who do not use them through secondhand exposure to toxicants in the aerosol. Prohibiting the use of e-cigarettes in workplaces, including restaurants, bars and gaming facilities, can protect the public’s health by preventing nonusers from being exposed to nicotine and other potentially harmful chemicals in the aerosol emitted by these products. No one should have to choose between their health and their job.
“ACS CAN commends the General Assembly for passing this important legislation and looks forward to seeing it continue to move through the process.”
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About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.