Smokefree Air 2010 Challenge
An estimated 438,000 Americans die each year from diseases directly related to cigarette smoking, including heart and lung diseases. Cigarette smoking has been identified as the leading cause of preventable disease and illness and premature death worldwide. The U.S. Surgeon General determined in 2006 that there is no risk-free level of exposure to secondhand smoke.
The American Lung Association has issued the Smokefree Air 2010 Challenge, calling on all states and local communities to pass comprehensive smokefree laws no later than 2010 to protect people across the U.S. from secondhand smoke.
A total 23 states, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico have passed such laws. In the Atlantic Coast region, the state of Maryland has a comprehensive smokefree law in effect. Our goal for 2009 is to see Virginia's legislators enact a comprehensive smokefree law, and for North Carolina's legislators to do so in 2010.
To join this effort in Virginia, visit the website for our coalition, Virginians for a Healthy Future, and sign up to become an e-advocate.
You can also become an e-advocate in Maryland and North Carolina and support the advocacy efforts in those states.
