Preparing for a positive impact on the health of the community, the elected officials of the Tarkio Board of Aldermen, on February 14, 2024, formally adopted an ordinance calling for smoke-free and vape-free workplaces and public places.

City council members reviewed the foundations for restrictions, including studies cited by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention showing exposure to secondhand smoke creates disease and premature death among non-smokers, and that there is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke.

The Atchison County Health & Wellness Coalition members attended the many meetings leading up to the vote. “We, as a coalition, are thankful to the Tarkio Board of Aldermen, City Clerk, and Mayor 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 second hand 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. Smoking will be allowed on outdoor or patio areas, but is not permitted within 10 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.

Education and enforcement provisions are included – specifying that all applicants for a business license will receive a copy of the ordinance to encourage compliance as well as complimentary signage. The City of Tarkio and the Atchison County Health Department will work to provide education, information, as well as access to resources and signage to help businesses promote their smoke-free environment. The ordinance will go into effect on March 15, 2024.

“The vast majority of residents and visitors of Tarkio are non-smokers and demand for smokefree workplaces has never been higher. Smokefree laws save lives and save businesses money, we’re proud to say everyone in Tarkio will be breathing easier with this ordinance in place,” said Livengood.

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/.