Proponents cite major city-wide health and business benefits

Preparing for a positive impact on the health of the community, the elected officials of the Rock Port Board of Aldermen voted to formally adopt an ordinance calling for smoke-free and vape-free workplaces and public places.

The Rock Port Board of Aldermen approved the measure after being presented with data that exposure to secondhand smoke creates disease and premature death among non-smokers, and that there is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke.

Atchison County Health & Wellness Coalition members attended many meetings leading up to the vote. “We, as a coalition, are thankful to the mayor of Rock Port for his leadership and the support of the aldermen for taking time to research the ordinance, talking with businesses, listening to both sides, and making the decision to vote for and protect the health and wellness of citizens, visitors, patrons, and workers against the dangers of secondhand smoke,” said Julie Livengood, Atchison County Health Department Administrator and coalition member.

The new ordinance will go a long way in protecting the health and safety of employees and patrons. As implemented, the law prohibits smoking in all workplaces, restaurants, and bars – including use of e-cigarettes/vapes, marijuana, and hemp. Smoking will be allowed on outdoor or patio areas but is not permitted within 15 feet of an enclosed area. Private residences would not be covered by the ordinance unless the residence is being used for child or adult daycare. People smoking on sidewalks outdoors would not be ticketed.

Local teen and Next to Rise member, Lily Wilroy, a junior at Rock Port High School, has been actively involved with the Atchison County Health & Wellness Coalition for the past two years, regularly attending monthly coalition meetings. The coalition welcomed Lily’s voice and youth perspective as part of their efforts to encourage city leaders to update Rock Port’s existing 1971 smoking fire safety ordinance with a comprehensive smokefree community ordinance. During presentations to Rock Port city leaders, Lily helped share the importance of smoke- and vape-free protections and highlighted the positive impact these measures can have on community health and well-being.

“Being part of a policy change like this in my local community is really important. I feel proud knowing that I’ve been able to make a difference right now in the place where I live,” Lily said. “Having smoke and vape free spaces matters because it helps create a healthier and safer environment for everyone, especially kids and families. It also encourages people to make healthier choices and protects others from secondhand smoke and vape aerosol.”

Smokefree indoor air laws accommodate both smoking and non-smoking patrons by asking those that smoke or vape to simply step outside. As an added benefit, smokefree workplaces encourage and support quitting smoking and vaping. The state of Missouri offers free help to those who want to quit smoking by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW (784-8669) or visiting http://www.youcanquit.org/.