PASCAGOULA, Miss. – The city of Pascagoula, Mississippi updated its smoke-free ordinance Tuesday night. The following is a statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Mississippi Government Relations Director Kimberly Hughes:
“We applaud the leaders of Pascagoula for making critical changes to the city’s smoke-free ordinance and making it a comprehensive model for Mississippi. Everyone has the right to breathe clean, smoke-free air regardless of where they live, work or play. And no one should have to choose between their health and a good paycheck.
“Still, more than 60 percent of Mississippi’s towns and cities are not protected by a smoke-free law like this one, putting people and families at risk. Our new Smoke-Free Mississippi website includes facts about going smoke-free and showcases stories of people impacted by secondhand smoke in our state.
“ACS CAN looks forward to working with more Mississippi leaders to make smoke-free environments a reality for all Mississippians.”
In addition, the following is a statement from Singing River Health System CEO Laurin St. Pé:
"At Singing River Health System, our mission is to Improve Health and Save Lives, and the passage of a comprehensive smoke-free ordinance strongly aligns with our commitment to protecting the health of our community, especially the well-being of children and future generations. This action reflects Pascagoula’s dedication to the health of its residents. There is clear evidence that exposure to secondhand smoke poses serious health risks, and this ordinance is an important step toward promoting long-term health across the Gulf Coast."