August 23, 2011
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A recent survey commissioned by the Southern Adirondack Tobacco-Free Coalition found overwhelming support for broader clean indoor air laws in Saratoga, Washington and Warren counties.
The survey, which was conducted by the Siena Research Institute, found high levels of support for expanding clean indoor air laws to playgrounds, municipal pools, entryways, public beaches and public parks. Support is highest for playgrounds.
Support in each county ranged from 52 to 83 percent for stricter laws in those areas.
The survey was conducted from June 20 to 23 using a random sample.
This year, several municipalities have established or expanded laws related to tobacco-free outdoor areas. The towns of Granville and Northumberland enacted tobacco-free policies for their municipal properties. Recently, the city of Glens Falls imposed a smoking ban in its public parks that carries fines and possible jail time.
“The research shows that not only are Glens Falls, Granville and Northumberland ahead of the curve in protecting their residents by creating healthy communities in which to live, work and play but that residents overwhelmingly support such measures,” Matthew Andrus, spokesman for the tobacco-free coalition, said in a statement.