In Pennsylvania, over 1,306 venues are exempt from the Clean Indoor Air Act (CIAA), leaving many hospitality workers exposed to harmful carcinogens. Only by enacting a comprehensive law can we give all workers the protection they deserve. Current exemptions to the law include:
A study of air quality in the state’s hospitality industry before and after CIAA in locations across the state found that indoor air pollution levels in newly smoke-free venues declined by nearly 90 percent. ALA estimates that smoke-free air across all venues would save 52 hospitality workers’ lives annually.[i]
A recent statewide poll conducted in early 2024 found that 75% of Pennsylvanians support a statewide law that protects workers and patrons from the dangers of secondhand smoke by requiring all workplaces and public places be 100% smokefree indoors including bars, restaurants, and casinos. For full poll results, click here.
[i] Pennsylvania Department of Health. Chapter 7 of Act 77. Tobacco Use Prevention and Cessation. State Fiscal Year July 1,2008-June 30, 2009 Annual Report.
