Second-hand smoke kills more than one thousand Marylanders each year, and restaurants and bars are the last remaining workplaces in the state where smoking is allowed.

Howard County recently joined 10 other municipalities in Maryland to ban smoking in all workplaces, including bars and restaurants. So far, 14 states and 10 countries have passed laws that ban smoking, citing the health care cost savings and other benefi cial health impacts. A coalition of organizations, including Maryland PIRG, is calling on legislators to close the loophole at the state level.

“Smoke-free ordinances do not hurt business,” said Johanna Neumann, policy advocate for Maryland PIRG. “In fact, some research suggests that they boost sales for restaurants and bars. Employers will also save money in health care costs by going smoke-free and families can once again enjoy a meal without threatening their health and the health of their children.”

Baltimore City Councilman Robert Curran has proposed a smoke-free ordinance for Baltimore City and will hold a hearing on October 25th. Maryland PIRG and the Smoke-Free Charm City Coalition are speaking to neighborhood associations and lining up experts in preparation of the hearing.