Bulgaria - as part of a bid to increase government revenues finance minister proposing tax hikes on certain cigarettes..

September 7, 2010 - The Bulgarian Ministry of Finance (Simeon Djankov - image below.) has published proposals for adjustments in the tax system in a bid to increase revenue for the 2011 state budget.

The proposals, posted at the Ministry's website, do not involve an overall increase in taxation rates, but introduces greater levy burdens for some cases.

Key proposed innovations include a unified VAT for the tourist sector, a new offshore tax, as well as increases in the rates for fuels and some tobacco products.
Some of the amendments to the tax legislation are motivated by the Ministry of Finance with the need to harmonize Bulgarian regulations with EU norms. This includes the tourism VAT rate, which at present is 7% for organized groups and a regular 20% rate for self-organized tourists. The proposal is for a 14% unified rate for all tourist transactions, which will guarantee equality for all tourists.

The increase in fuel excise also follows an agreement with the EU. The proposal for regular gasoline is BGN 710 per 1000 l instead of the current BGN 685.

The excise for cigarettes will also be adjusted, with cigarettes up to 8 cm (filter excluded) taxed at the regular rate, cigarettes 8-11 cm taxed at a double rate, and products 11-14 cm at a triple rate.

Directly related news briefs: April 1, 2010 - Bulgaria - every increase in excise duty on cigarettes consumption goes down.;
March 31 2010 - Bulgaria - grace period over, increase in tobacco tax starts Thursday, April 1, 2010...

A 10% tax will be levied at the source for offshore transactions to reduce tax evasion and money laundering.

A major innovation is proposed in the field of depreciation (amortization), which sees the speed of depreciation of assets decreased. This will increase the value of companies' assets and so the amounts taxable.

Reference: Bulgaria to Up Some Taxes to Boost 2011 Revenue, Novinite.com, 9/7/2010.

Bulgaria - cigarette smuggling news briefs:
Bulgartabac - 1st half 2010 - Bulgarian Tobacco Company Registers Huge Profit Increase..;
Bulgaria - customs agents find large scale cigarette contraband.. ;
Bulgaria - customs intercepts 6-tons of smuggled tobacco headed for Romania..;
Bulgaria - were the cigarettes contraband or not..Moldova says NO..;
Bulgaria - Italian authorities arrest 2-Bulgarians smuggling cigarettes..;
Bulgaria - do producers support contraband cigarettes??;
Bulgaria - illegal trade in cigarettes will reach 40% of total trade in 2010..;
Bulgaria -two cigarette smuggling attempts busted on Serbian border..;
Bulgaria - police busts major cigarette contraband ring..;
Bulgaria - MPs Impose Hefty Fines on Cigarette Sales Violators..;
Bulgaria and others - smoking ban, increased cigarette taxes, smuggling..;
Bulgaria - cigarette contraband, government loses BGN 920M yearly..;
Bulgaria - one third of the tobacco products sold are illicit..;
PMI training Bulgarian custom officers to stop cigarette smuggling..;
WHO FCTC Protocol to Prevent Illicit Trade in Tobacco Products Won't Be Completed Until End of 2010..;

Read more...

MMWR - Vital Signs: Nonsmokers' Exposure to Secondhand Smoke --- United States, 1999--2008..

September 7, 2010 - Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) - September 7, 2010 / 59(Early Release);7-12

Secondhand exposure to tobacco smoke causes heart disease and lung cancer in nonsmoking adults and sudden infant death syndrome, acute respiratory infections, middle ear disease, exacerbated asthma, respiratory symptoms, and decreased lung function in children.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data from 1999--2008 were analyzed to determine the proportion of the nonsmoking population with serum cotinine (the primary nicotine metabolite) levels ≥0.05 ng/mL, by age, sex, race/ethnicity, household income level, and to determine whether the household included a person who smoked inside the home.

Secondhand smoke exposure has declined in the United States, but 88 million nonsmokers aged ≥3 years are still exposed, progress in reducing exposure has slowed, and disparities in exposure persist, with children being among the most exposed. Nearly all nonsmokers who live with someone who smokes inside their home are exposed to secondhand smoke.

Read Report: Vital Signs: Nonsmokers' Exposure to Secondhand Smoke --- United States, 1999--2008.. Read more...

MMWR - Vital Signs: Current Cigarette Smoking Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years --- United States, 2009..

September 7, 2010 - Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) - September 7, 2010 / 59(Early Release);1-6

Previous declines in smoking prevalence in the United States have stalled during the past 5 years; the burden of cigarette smoking continues to be high, especially in persons living below the federal poverty level and with low educational attainment.

Sustained, adequately funded, comprehensive tobacco control programs could reduce adult smoking.

Read Report: Vital Signs: Current Cigarette Smoking Among Adults Aged ≥18 Years --- United States, 2009.. Read more...

Finland - ban on smoking on terraces of private apartments overturned..

September 7, 2010 - Finland has been a real disappointment when it comes to tobacco control. Based on what Finns were saying it was felt they consumption of tobacco would end by 2040.. It doesn't look like this will happen based on the the new tobacco act approved by the President of Finland.

To underscore the weakness of tobacco control an administrative court in the Finnish city of Hämeenlinna (about 70 miles north of Helsinki) has overturned a ban that the municipality of Pirkkala imposed on smoking on the terrace of a private rental apartment, according to an Esmerk Finnish News story.

The municipality banned smoking on the patio of a privately-owned building on the grounds that cigarette smoke could pose a health risk to residents in the neighboring apartment.

The administrative court ruled that while the smoke tests carried out by health inspectors were appropriate, a ban that applied to the whole courtyard was too strict.

Reference: Terrace smoking ban too strict, Tobacco Reporter, 9/7/2010.

Finland - some related news briefs:
Finland - president approves new tobacco act, not as strong as people hoped..;
Finland - Philip Morris destroys 20 million cigarettes - not self-extinguishing..;
Finland - govt can not prevent people from smoking in cars when kids are present..;
Finland - proposal for plain cigarette packaging surfaces again..;
Finland - parliament will soon vote on anti-smoking bill..;
Finland - anti-smoking bill will end smoking altogether..;
Finland - to end the consumption of tobacco products by 2040..;
Finland - extends anti-tobacco law, restricting smoking in cars and ban on cigarette displays..;
Finland - health officials devising more restrictions to fight tobacco use..;
Finland - government proposing ban on smoking when kids present and other tobacco control measures..;
Finland may ban smoking in cars carrying children..;
Finland - Court of Appeals Hears Cigarette Liability Case, Decision Spring 2010..;
Finland banning shops from displaying cigarettes..;
Finland - proposal to ban tobacco display, total ban on SNUS..;
European Health Commissioner reprimands Astrid Thors for snus liberation campaign..;
Aland Islands Dispute Over Sale of SNUS On Board Ships Threatens Finland's Ratification of the EU's Treaty of Lisbon (The Reform Treaty)..;
Finnish Ferry Goes Swedish Over Snus Ban..;
EU Takes Finland to Court Again For NOT Banning the Use of Oral Tobacco..


Read more...

Malawi - as of September 1, 2010 all cigarettes require a tax stamp..

September 7, 2010 - Blantyre, Malawi - In a statement published Wednesday Lloyd Muhara, Commissioner General of the Malawi Revenue Authority (MRA) - Malawi's official tax collectors - said from 1 September, 2010 all manufacturers, importers and distributors of cigarettes must obtain a licence from the tax body that will indicate that they have paid duty or tax on their cigarettes.

Muhara said this was in line with the new Customs and Excise Amendment Act that Finance Minister Ken Kandodo announced in July this year, when he presented the 2010/11 national budget. 'This means that MRA has granted the business community a grace period of three months to dispose off their existing stocks after which cigarettes without the prescribed stamps will be impounded and destroyed,' said Malawi chief tax man.

The tobacco industry is big in Malawi, with the southern African country being the largest producer of burley tobacco.

Malawi, a country almost entirely dependent on tobacco for government revenue, employment and development financing. After the government, the tobacco industry is the second largest employer. It is responsible for 75 per cent of foreign earnings and contributes 10 per cent of the country's gross domestic product. The crop has been so eagerly embraced by farmers in the region that they call it the "golden leaf." ('Golden leaf' loses its lustre International tobacco controls spurring production shifts by Naututu Okhoya and Gumisai Mutume, Africa Renewal, Vol.18 #3 (October 2004), page 4)

Malawi - how can this country survive without tobacco??

At least 80 percent of Malawians directly or indirectly depend on the industry that contributes to at least 23 percent of all tax collections and 30 percent of GDP.

MRA spokesman Steve Kapoloma told PANA (Pan African News Agency) that this may not necessarily translate into increases in prices of cigarettes. 'In fact, this tax is beneficial to the manufacturers, importers and distributors as they were not able to sell to their optimum because of illegal smuggled cigarettes,' he said.

Kapoloma said the new regulations would make it illegal for anyone to be found peddling cigarettes without the MRA-issued stickers. He said this would mean from Wednesday Malawian border authorities would no longer allow entry of cigarettes without the MRA stickers.

'This will automatically mean a decrease in smuggled cigarettes and if we decrease the sale in cheap smuggled cigarettes the gap will be filled by the legitimate manufactures, importers and distributors,' he said, adding: 'So since they will be able to sell more than they are doing now there will be no need to increase prices.'

But, while welcoming the introduction of the tax stamps, an official of the British American Tobacco (BAT) said it would definitely come at a cost. 'There will definitely be a cost for this but we won't bear it; we will pass it to the consumers,' said the official who did not want to be identified because he is not authorised to speak to the media. 'There will definitely be a slight increase in retail prices.'

However, the official said the tax stamps were a welcome development because, if enforced properly, it would curb the influx of smuggled cigarettes. 'The challenge will be enforcement because if they police and enforce this properly it will curb illicit cigarettes,' he said. 'We've been crying for this for a long time.'

Reference: Malawi: Puffing more expensive in Malawi as taxman calls, AfriquenLigne.com, 9/2/2010.

Malawi - related news briefs:
Malawi - survey indicates fewer farmers to grow tobacco..;
Malawi - children - green tobacco sickness (nicotine poisoning..;
Malawi - deports leaf tobacco merchants for paying low prices..;
Malawi - kids working in tobacco production..
Malawi tobacco estate workers have not benefited..;
Malawi - how can this country survive without tobacco??;
BAT using illegal tactics to get African youths to start smoking..;
British American Tobacco (BAT) - 100 years in Africa...
Read more...

Washington State - as of September 1st no more single cigarettes sold..

photo: MARK HARRISON / THE SEATTLE TIMES
September 6, 2010 - One of the provisions in the rule that became effective on June 22, 2010 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) prohibited the sale of cigarette packages with fewer than 20 cigarettes. (U.S. FDA publishes rule to protect our children that restrict advertising and marketing of tobacco products..)

The FDA stopped the sales June 22, and stores in Washington State had until September 1, 2010 to sell off any remaining stock. The SingleStick cigarette sold at convenience stores, just one cigarette, in a plastic tube, selling for 75 cents to $1 each. "They were very popular. We sold 80 a day," says Amy Chinn, owner of the Mercer Mini Mart in Seattle. "People would ask me what happened. I would tell them, 'Ask the government. I can't answer that.' "

They had been around for 15 years, sometimes displayed in a cardboard box on the cash-register counter, sometimes inside a plastic box that rolled them out like toothpicks.

Anti-smoking forces had never liked that some enterprising stores would open up a pack of cigarettes and sell them individually. They said that would entice kids to buy them and begin the habit.

So in 1993 states banned stores from doing that. But because of quirks in laws of a few states, including Oregon and Washington, it turned out that until the FDA stepped in, individual cigarettes could be sold — if each cigarette had its own tax stamp.

A Phoenix company, Prime Time International, decided to package individual cigarettes in plastic tubes, and at first had workers applying the stamps by hand. Then it figured out how to use automation to apply encrypted tax stamps to each tube, so each tube had its own individual stamp. It'd turn out that Oregon and Washington were the biggest markets for SingleSticks.

Reference: Need to buy one last cigarette? Too bad; SingleStick sales halted by Erik Lactitis, Seattle Times, 9/6/2010.

Washington State - some related new briefs:
Washington State - smoking rate going down, smokeless tobacco use going up..;
Washington State - since 2000 61% fewer people smoking inside homes..;
Washington State - tax on tobacco products increase as of May 1, 2010..;
Washington State - increase in tax on all tobacco products..
Washington State - R.J. Reynolds found guilty of violating ban on cartoons..;
Weight-based taxation of moist snuff..

Read more...

Thailand govt - wants to ban the growing of Burley and Oriental tobacco..

September 6, 2010 - Nearly 10,000 families of Burley tobacco planters in Sukhothai have called on the Public Health Ministry to reconsider its plan to ban or phase out growing of two tobacco varieties. The ban on Burley and Oriental tobacco, in compliance with an international agreement on tobacco control, would leave only Virginia in the market, said Somnuek Yimpim, the headman of Thap Pueng subdistrict.

Somreung Thanasup, the Wangthong subdistrict headman, said tobacco growers in Sukhothai would join with Burley and Oriental growers in other provinces to ask the ministry to reconsider its position. He estimated that a ban would affect 100,000 families across the country.

The Public Health Ministry is preparing to ratify the pact initiated by the World Health Organisation in 2003. Three tobacco varieties now dominate the world market and Thailand grows all three: Virginia in the North, Burley in the central region and Oriental in the Northeast.

Directly related news brief: U.S. Burley tobacco growers - WHO FCTC articles elimination of American-style cigarettes..

During the curing process, burley tobacco becomes harsh tasting, so manufacturers add ingredients and sometimes blend different types of tobacco to make cigarettes made with burley more pleasant to smokers. The thinking behind the WHO guideline is that nothing should be done to make the product more alluring to potential smokers. (Tobacco additives issue set to take world stage by Tim Thornberry, Bizlex.com, 9/1/2010.

The WHO plans a meeting in November where 168 member countries are to vote on the final agreement, which was spearheaded by Canada and the European Union. (Tobacco's fate to be known in November, Philip Pemba, The Nation, 6/25/2010)

The panel to draft the tobacco control pact was set up last year with 24 countries including Thailand participating.

"Moves to control new smokers are beyond our control, and I think aggressive campaigns on tobacco control by the Public Health Ministry are very good," said Mr Somnuek.

"But we have planted Burley tobacco for a living for more than 60 years. What will we do if we can no longer grow it?" He said tobacco cultivation in Sukhothai took place from November to February and did not overlap with rice growing. Tobacco also provides a better return than rice because fertiliser and pesticide costs are lower, he said.

Reference: Tobacco ban worries growers, BangkokPost.com, 9/6/2010.

Some other Thailand news briefs:
Thailand - more measures put in place to protect non-smokers..;
Thailand - number of no-smoking zones expanded..;
Thailand - PMI likely breached the Foreign Business Act..;
Thai Tobacco Monopoly withdraws products from Tabinfo Asia 2009..;
Thailand - organizer of international tobacco exhibition fined..;
Thailand - hand-rolled cigarettes more popular and other matters..;
WTO - "DS 371" Philippines versus Thailand on cigarette customs valuation..;
Thailand - Tobacco Expo organizers and guests must obey all tobacco control laws..;
Thailand unit of Philip Morris International faces charges that it violated custom tax rules..;
Thailand - hosting major tobacco promotion event in November 2009..;
Thailand Tobacco Monoploly - union concerned about privatization..;
Thailand - monks sickly from tobacco smoking and/or smoke exposure..;
Philippines - Thai cigarette import rules..;
Thailand - cigarette and liquor prices are expected to rise once new measures for calculating excise taxes take effect..;
Congratulations.. Thailand Joins Developed World With Total Ban On Smoking..;
Discouraging Tobacco Use - Horrific Images on the Packaging..

- Thailand is a member of Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA)..

Read more...

Philippines - bill would require 75% of locally-grown tobacco in cigarettes..

September 6. 2010 - A senior lawmaker has filed a bill requiring cigar and cigarette manufacturers to use at least 75 percent of locally-grown tobacco in the manufacture of cigarettes in the country to help the economy grow.

Ilocos Sur Rep. Eric Owen Singson Jr., author of House Bill 170, said in the past five years, cigarette manufacturers have reduced considerably the use of locally-produced tobacco and shifted to the use of imported tobacco as raw materials in the manufacture of their cigarettes.

He said for more than 30 years in the past, tobacco farmers in the North have enjoyed a certain level of economic stability and prosperity, giving them the opportunity to improve their standard of living that enabled them to send their children to school.

Under the measure, the National Tobacco Administration is directed to formulate the implementing rules and regulations and shall establish a performance monitoring system to ensure compliance.

Violators face a fine of P10 million (225,174.51 USD) to P50 million (1,125,872.56 USD) and closure of the establishment.

Reference: Bill seeks to compel cigarette firms to use 75% local tobacco by Paolo S. Romero, The Philippine Star, 9/6/2010.

Philippines - some related news briefs:
Philippines - lawmaker files bill to make cigarette-makers share in the health costs of smoking..;
Philippines - House of Representatives turns down proposal to hke tax on cigarettes by 400%..;
Philippines - PMI warehouse opens - former smokers that no longer have a voice are upset..;
Philippines - injunction regarding picture health warnings on cigarette packs nationwide..;
Philippines - more and more women dying of lung cancer..;
Philippines - tobacco companies don't want warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - President Aquino has stated he will prioritize increase in the tax on cigarettes..;
Philippines - DOH pushing for hefty tax increase on cigarettes..;
Philippines - Muslim council says smoking is forbidden..;
Philippines - PMFTC has 90% of the tobacco market..;
Philippines - Philip Morris report sales higher than annual 2-3% growth..;
Philippines - National Tobacco Assoc. will oppose any move to reduce demand for tobacco unless govt..;
Philippines - tobacco industry has obtained temporary relief from placing graphic warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - govt agencies and employees barred from unnessary interaction with tobacco industry..;
Philippines - Filipino Muslims forbidden to smoke, trade cigarettes..;
Philippine congress proclaims Aquino 15th president..;
Philippines - tobacco firms claim graphic warnings on cigarette packs are illegal..;
Philippines - new president smokes but this should not slow tobacco prevention activities..:
Philippines - Department of Health wants health warnings on cigarette packs within 90 days..;
Philippines - health groups want more protection from the dangers of tobacco..;
Philippines - DOH warns government agencies to avoid partnerships or accepting donations from tobacco manufacturers..;
Philip Morris Philippines..;
Philippines - DoH pushes for picture warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - PMI - FTC merger may lead smokers continuing to smoke and lure children into a life of nicotine addiction..;
Philippines - PMI and Fortune Tobacco Corp. form new company called PMFTC..;
Philippines - Tanauan City names street Philip Morris..;
Philippines - DOH campaign for 100% smoke-free workplaces..;
Philippines - total tobacco industry could be down 10% to 15% this year..;
Philippines - 2003 ban on advertising and skirting the ban..;
Philippines - June is annually observed as 'No Smoking' Month..;
Philippines may be losing the war against smoking..;
http://snus-news.blogspot.com/2008/11/philippines-thai-cigarette-import-rules.html;
Philip Morris won't postpone Philippines Eraserheads Concert..;
Philip Morris could be criminally liable for its sponsorship of the event .in the Philippines..;
STOP PMI Sponsoring Concert in Philippines..;
Philippines - Smoker to be deported...
Filipino
Read more...

Pregnant - it's best to be tobacco free to avoid a miscarriage..

September 6, 2010 - A Swedish study by the Karolinska Institute and Uppsala University warned that women who uses snus are 60 percent more likely to misscarry than average.

“Stillbirth is probably one of the worst things that can happen to parents who are expecting a baby. That also snus increases the risk of this underlines the importance of being complete tobacco-free when you are pregnant”, Anna-Karin Wikström at the Uppsala University Hospital Women's clinic told newspaper Upsala Nya Tidning.

Snus, a moist powder tobacco product that you consume by placing it under the lip, is said to be much less dangerous than smoking. But to take up snus in order to quit smoking may be contra productive. A woman who smokes just a few cigarettes a day has 40 percent higher risk of miscarriage.

"Taking the help of snus to quit smoking is a bad option to protect children", said Anna-Karin Wikström.

The study, that was launched more than ten years ago, involved almost 570,000 women.

The small, teabag-like pouches, also called moist snuff, are used by nearly one million Swedes. Placed under the user's lip, they quickly deliver a nicotine rush to the blood and a strong salt and herbs flavour in the mouth. While cigarette sales have tumbled by 50 percent in Sweden over the past 30 years, snus is on the up, with sales rising from some 2,500 tonnes a year in the 1970s to almost 7,500 tonnes in 2008.

Sweden is the only EU member state where sales are permitted. (EU Scientific Committee Concludes: Insufficent Evidence to Lift Ban on SNUS.); also SNUS pouches are promoted as being spitless..); The Art of Snusing..)

Reference: Snus increases miscarriage risk drastically, Author: Johan Nylander, The Swedish Wire, 9/5/2010.

Read more...

New Zealand - tobacco industry whistleblower addresses the Maori select committee..

Our hearts & prayers go out to "kiwis" - a 7.0 magnitude earthquake hits the Christchurch area on September 3, 2010..

Aotearoa - Maori name for New Zealand..
Dr Jeffrey Wigand - the whistleblower famous for publicly exposing the inside workings of America's tobacco industry on 60 Minutes in the mid-1990s, and later portrayed by Russell Crowe in the movie The Insider - is in New Zealand this week (week of July 20th - 2010) to address the Maori select committee as it makes an inquiry into the tobacco industry.

The results of a multi-national study were published this morning, showing that of the eight countries tested, New Zealand cigarettes have the highest amount of tar and the second-highest level on nicotine per cigarette.

The study by international company British American Tobacco's researchers in Britain tested 80,000 butts supplied from smoked cigarettes by smokers in eight countries. Fifteen cigarette brands were tested in each country, to reflect the range available.

New Zealand smokers sucked out 1.62mg of nicotine a cigarette, the second-highest amount and far more than Australians' 1.36mg.

NZ smokers exposed to more tar than Aussies by Martin Johnston, NZHerald.co/nz, 6/21/2010.

The study was published online by the journal Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology. Worrying findings as he sees them, with higher nicotine levels making it harder for us to quit smoking and tar being the irritant that leads to smoking related illness and death.

Greater addiction with more negative health effects as the consequence - according to Dr Wigand, it's a well-formed plan.

VIDEO - Watch the full interview..

Reference: Tobacco industry whistleblower talks to Campbell Live, 3News.co.nz, 6/21/2010.

New Zealand related news briefs:
New Zealand - a third of patients seeking treatment in the ED were smokers..;
New Zealand - the majority of New Zealanders support an end to commercial tobacco sales by 2020 - can it happen??;
New Zealand - study revives interest in keeping tobacco hidden..;
New Zealand - health board says no to psychiatric hospital smoking ban..;
New Zealand - report on illicit trade and options to control growth of illicit trade..;
New Zealand - ASH Year 10 Snapshot Survey - Dramatic youth smoking decline..;
New Zealand - plain cigarette and tobacco packs could turn teenagers off smoking..;
New Zealand - Tobacco companies target women..;
New Zealand - lobby group of small retailers formed to protest tobacco price hike..;
New Zealand - more than half of the people want to end tobacco sales by 2020..;
New Zealand - revenue department has begun a review of BAT financial transactions..;
New Zealand - increase in tobacco excise forced through Parliament by the Government..;
New Zealand - Christchurch prepares for meeting with tobacco select committee..;
New Zealand - biggest drop in smoking rates seen in a decade..;
New Zealand - Maori affairs committee continues to gather information..;
New Zealand - study quit-smoking products that are acceptabe and effective..;
New Zealand - smoking ban results in decrease in heart attacks..;
New Zealand - BAT attends Maori Affairs select committee meeting on tobacco..;
New Zealanders want cigarettes banned by 2020..;
New Zealand - Maori women - almost 50% smoke..;
New Zealand - more and more teenagers turned off by smoking..;
New Zealand - loophole in the law banning tobacco sponsorship..;
New Zealand - University of Auckland to go smokefree - 1st university in country..;
New Zealand - smoking ban in bars results in less smoking at home..;
New Zealand - study, tobacco displays leads to increase in youth smoking..;
New Zealand - graphic warnings cigarette maker selects less offensive images..;
New Zealand - Maori committee to investigate smoking..;
New Zealand - Tairawhiti Board wants tobacco sold only on prescription..;
New Zealand - health researchers calling on government to ban importation of tobacco..;
New Zealand - 1st trial ever of e-cigarettes..;
New Zealand - BAT reducing prices discouraging people from quitting..;
New Zealand - stop smoking campaigns NOT working..;
BAT awarded worst corporation in New Zealand..;
New Zealand - government may NOT support tobacco display bans..;
New Zealand More Evidence Needed to Ban Tobacco and Cigarette Displays..;
More evidence - tobacco displays increase the risk of teens smoking..;
Horror photos go on New Zealand cigarette packs..;
Country to Eliminate Smoking - The South Pacific nation of Niue;
Ireland to ban tobacco displays..;
Smokefree NZ within 10 years..;
By law, oral snuff cannot (but nasal snuff is allowed) be sold in New Zealand and can be imported only for personal use..
Read more...

Scotland - 90% of Scots back law that prosecutes adults for buying cigarettes for children..

September 4, 2010 - The Scottish Parliament has already passed legislation that will enable adults to be prosecuted for buying cigarettes for children, in line with similar laws for alcohol. This will now come into force on April 1 2011. (Tobacco and Primary Medical Services (Scotland) Act 2010)

A total of 89% of people surveyed agreed that businesses should have to have a licence to sell tobacco, which could be removed if they were caught selling to under-age youngsters more than once. The research found 82% supported the law banning smoking in enclosed public places, although this fell to 57% amongst those who smoke, with 35% of smokers totally opposed to the ban.

The survey, published by anti-smoking group Ash Scotland, also found that four out of five smokers backed such a move. It also found 80% of people backed increasing access to local stop-smoking services in the NHS, with 68% of smokers in support.

Ash Scotland chief executive Sheila Duffy said: "These results show the high support that both smokers and non-smokers in Scotland have for continuing action against the harm caused by smoking. "Scots are very aware of the harm caused by smoking, the deaths and illness due to smoking and the toll it takes on our society, our communities and our families".

"Both smokers and non-smokers alike would like to see changes in Scotland. It is clear that respondents are concerned about preventing young people taking up smoking and want to see restrictions which will stop young people accessing cigarettes. For smokers, they also very much support NHS stop-smoking services, which is unsurprising when 69% of smokers would like to quit."

Reference: 90% of Scots back tobacco sale laws, Press Association Scotland, 9/2/2010.

Scotland - related news briefs:
Scotland, Grampian Region - latest word, NHS Grampian hospital smoking clampdown delayed..;
Scotland - bribing people to live a healthy lifestyle..;
Scotland - Imperial Tobacco in legal action to stop ban on cigarette displays and vending machine removal..;
Scotland - tobacco industry says massive increase in illegal cigarettes..;
PAPER: Scotland Unhealthy risk factors those with lack of education/ low income..;
Scotland - renewing efforts to stop pregnant women from smoking..;
Scotland - cigarette smoking quit attempts increase by 35%..;
Scotland - retailers can provide input on future to ban the display of tobacco..;
Scotland - campaigners want more to be done to protect young people from passive smoking..;
Scotland - government no plans to ban smoking in cars and public places used by children..;
Scotland - smokers will be banned from fostering or adopting children, comments from Professor Banzhaf..;
Scotland - parliament votes to ban retail cigarette displays and vending machines..;
Scotland - health minister urges smokers to quit..;
Scotland - some men beginning to lead a healthier lifestyle and therefore living longer..;
Scotland - self-reporting of smoking by pregnant women underestimates true number of pregnant smokers..;
Scotland - tobacco firms claim proposed display ban is unnecessary..;
"Glasgow effect" - prevalence of cigarette smoking impact on poor health..;
Scotland - tobacco industry will try to stop attempts to curb sales to young people..;
Scotland - cigarette vending machines removal..;
Scottish politicans most have the courage to protect the health of their constituents..;
Scotland - small businesses given extra 2-years to remove tobacco displays..;
Northern Ireland - assembly approves ban on display of tobacco items..;
Scotland to ban cigarette displays and outlaw cigarette vending machines..;
Bar workers who smoke also benefit from smoking ban..;
17 countries in the world ban indoor smoking - ENFORCEMENT..;
England, Wales to ban tobacco displays in shops..;
Definite Health Benefits of Smoking Bans..;
Northern Ireland raising age for sale of tobacco from 16 to 18 joining the other three United Kingdom (UK) countries..;
Scotland proposes to implement more measures to discourage tobacco use including the banning of tobacco displays..;
Raise Age to 21 to Purchase Tobacco Products...
Read more...

Wisconsin - July 2010 smoking ban included banning smoking in every hotel guestroom..

September 3, 2010 - Unlike most other non-smoking states, Wisconsin in July passed a statewide smoking ban that bans smoking in every hotel guestroom. In most states that have banned smoking in public places, such as Kansas, the legislation allows hoteliers to exempt a certain percentage of guestrooms.

But in Wisconsin, "there can be zero rooms" that allow smoking in sleeping rooms, Trisha Pugal, CEO of Wisconsin Hotel and Lodging Association told me in an interview.
And the new law is causing "a major culture change" for hoteliers and guests alike.

Wisconsin is the second state in the USA after Michigan to pass anti-smoking legislation that doesn't exempt hotels, she said. The hotel association didn't exactly embrace the legislation. In fact, the group lobbied to let hotels retain a certain percentage of smoking rooms, but the proposal was shot down.

Today, hoteliers say their biggest challenge with the smoking ban is convincing guests that it truly is the law - and that there are real consequences if they smoke in their room, according to Pugal. "People tend not to believe," she says. "We even created a signage guide for lodging properties to help educate the guest. In the hospitality industry, you don't want to appear inhospitable."

Wisconsin's roughly 2,000 hotels post signs declaring their building a non-smoking facility. They're also requiring guests to initial a statement promising to comply or face paying a fee. Hotels are charging penalty fees anywhere from $100 to $300, she said. "Unfortunately, there are people choosing to smoke anyway, even with all the signage and initialing things saying they know there will be a penalty," Pugal told me.

Hotel staffers don't always know that a person smoked until a housekeeper gets into the room to clean it, sometimes creating "a logistical nightmare" for the hotel if someone is waiting for the same room that then must be cleaned thoroughly, she said.
Smoking guests who flout the law, however, aren't getting away with it. Hotels are charging the fee, in hopes that it will deter people from smoking the next time.

Whether the smoking ban is costing hotels business isn't yet clear. Pugal just yesterday sent member hotels a survey to see how the ban may be affecting their business.

Reference: Wisconsin law bans smoking in all hotel guestrooms by Barbara De Lollis, USA TODAY, 9/2/2010.

Wisconsin related news briefs:
Green Bay Packers games - got it right - no smoking..;
Wisconsin - fewer young people smoking..;
Wisconsin - statewide smoking ban starts Monday, July 5, 2010..;
Wisconsin - with smoking ban coming tavern league selling discounted e-cigarettes - is this legal??;
Wisconsin - will July 5th smoking ban lead to more cigarette litter..;
Wisconsin - preparing residents for a more complete smoking ban starting in July 2010..;
Appleton, Wisconsin - will city get grant to fight dissolvable tobacco products seen as a threat to children..;
Wisconsin - lawmakers defeat plan to eventually eliminate candy-flavored tobacco..;
Wisconsin - almost last state to require fire-safe cigarettes..;
Wisconsin - government anti-smoking programs cut from $15.3 million a year to $6.9 million..;
Wisconsin - tobacco taxes to go up tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1, 2009..;
U.S. - Midwest States smoking bans do not hurt business..;
Wisconsin Governor Doyle signs smoking ban..;
Wisconsin - legislature passes smoking ban in restaurants, bars and other businesses..;
Count Wisconsin as the 26th state to ban smoking..;
Wisconsin may be the 26th state to ban smoking in all bars and restaurants..;
Wisconsin - Increased Sales Tax Decrease in Smoking..;
Wisconsin's achieves the lowest adult smoking prevalence ever..;
The primary reason to increase the tax on tobacco is to get smokers to quit and dissuade kids from starting..;
Wisconsin cigarette tax and tax on other tobacco products to increase January 1, 2008..;
Wisconsin to Increase Tax on All Tobacco Products..;
Wisconsin voters overwhelmingly (2-to-1) favor upping cigarette taxes by $1.25 a pack..
Read more...

General Tobacco, 6th largest U.S. tobacco company to close..

September 3, 2010 - General Tobacco, maker of low-priced cigarettes such as Bronco, Silver and GT One is planning to shut down after failing to make Master Settlement Agreement payments owed to states, reports the Wall Street Journal.

General Tobacco, of Mayodan, N.C., stopped producing cigarettes and other tobacco products at its North Carolina plant several months ago and is winding down operations, according to J. Ronald Denman, executive vice president and general counsel. He said the closely held company, which is formally called Vibo Corp., recently has been selling off inventory in foreign markets.

The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) of 1998 was a legal settlement between the Attorneys General of 46 U.S. states and the four largest American tobacco companies to settle lawsuits brought by the states to recover billions of dollars in costs associated with treating smoking-related illnesses. Four states - Florida, Minnesota, Mississippi, and Texas - settled their tobacco cases separately from the MSA states. The MSA requires the tobacco industry to make payments to the states totaling approximately $246 billion through the year 2025.

General Tobacco became a participating manufacturer to the Master Settlement Agreement in 2004, six years after it was signed by major tobacco companies, and agreed to make payments to the states for both ongoing sales and those it recorded prior to joining the agreement.

The company has made about $600 million in payments to states, but early this year, Washington, North Carolina and other states barred the company from selling cigarettes because it had not made certain payments for cigarette sales prior to 2004. The bans didn't affect filtered cigars and roll-your-own tobacco sold by the company. The delisting is part of the pressures that the 46 participating states in the Master Settlement Agreement are putting on General to make good on its back-payment obligations.

Mr. Denman said General Tobacco has informed states that it will not be able to make the so-called back payments. The company did not say how many states have requested the delisting. Noelle Talley, a spokeswoman for the N.C. Attorney General's Office, said that General's cigarette brands were removed from the state's list of approved brands on Jan. 20. Talley said that the state cited "General's failure to comply with the financial obligations under the Master Settlement Agreement and subsequent agreements."

General Tobacco products is on its way to being barred from selling its cigarette products in 18 states over its failure to make payments under the multistate Master Settlement Agreement (MSA), which was created in 1998. (General Tobacco - will remove cigarette brands from certain states..)

In 2008, General Tobacco sued many attorneys general and tobacco companies, alleging that the Master Settlement Agreement violated federal antitrust and constitutional law. The company argued that rivals such as Liggett enjoyed terms under the agreement that gave them unfair competitive advantages. A U.S. judge in Kentucky dismissed the case last year. General Tobacco filed an appeal this year, and continues to pursue it, Mr. Denman said.

Reference: General Tobacco Plans to Shut Down, by DAVID KESMODEL, The Wall Street Journal, 9/3/2010.

Some related news briefs:

General Tobacco - will remove cigarette brands from certain states..;
General Tobacco - owes states $285 million..;
General Tobacco - last defendants dropped from cigarette antitrust suit..;
General Tobacco makes MSA payment in full..;
General Tobacco reaches deal with states on MSA;
Judge dismisses General Tobacco challenge to tobacco settlement..; General Tobacco lays off nearly 25% of work force..;
General Tobacco Sues 52 U.S Attorneys General and 19 Tobacco Companies..; N.C.'s General Tobacco Appoints New Sales Head..;
General Tobacco completes move to Mayodan, N.C..;
General Tobacco (GT) could “potentially” come out with snus type product..; Read more...

England - if you want to rent a place to live then it's time to quit smoking..

September 3, 2010 - A new survey published on Easyroommate.co.uk, has revealed that 38% of the landlords do not tolerate smoking and would not allow their tenants to smoke in their properties, whereas only 7% of the landlords would give their properties to a smoker, or allow the tenant to smoke at their dwelling.

The survey found a strong shift in attitude against smoking tenants among landlords following the smoking ban introduced in July 2007. Jonathan Moore, the director of Easyroommate.co.uk, said: “With smoking in pubs and restaurants off the cards, the last refuge for smoking – at home – is being eroded now, too. There’s been a strong shift in attitudes towards smoking since the ban. Smoker-friendly accommodation has been squeezed as a result.

“Since its introduction, many landlords who were a little more tolerant previously have subsequently turned their flats into smoke-free zones. All the signs show that the clamp down is only going to get worse.”

The number of smokers has fallen by a quarter in the past decade, but an estimated 200,000 young people start smoking every year. More than 80,000 deaths are attributed to smoking ever year, costing the NHS almost £3 billion a year.

Smoking remains the main cause of preventable disease and premature death in the UK. About 8.5 million people still smoke in England today, and over 80,000 deaths a year are due to smoking in England alone. That is why the Government White Paper Choosing Health: Making healthier choices easier, (building on the 1998 White Paper Smoking Kills), promised new action to tackle tobacco.

The Department's tobacco programme is split into six 'strands', which each contribute to the overall reduction in smoking. Since 1998 adult smoking rates in England have fallen from 28 percent in 1998 to 21 percent in 2008 - a fall of nearly 2.5 million. These are the lowest smoking rates in England on record.

Department of Health - Tobacco

Mr Moore added: “Thousands of smokers are unable to buy their own homes to smoke in, and are reliant on private renting and flatsharing. They are finding it harder than ever to find suitable accommodations.

References: According to a Survey, Smokers Are Not Accepted Anymore submitted by Barinder Khatra, TOPNEWS.co.uk, 09/02/2010; Smokers barred from renting a home More than 90 per cent of smokers are barred from renting a property, new figures have suggested. by Myra Butterworth, Personal Finance Correspondent, Telegraph.co.uk, 9/1/2010.
(house, apartment, flat, room, town house, condominium)
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Residual tobacco smoke pollution in used cars..

September 3, 2010 - Disclosure requirements and smoke-free certifications could help protect buyers of used cars from tobacco smoke pollution (TSP), according to a report in the journal of Nicotine and Tobacco Research.

Such requirements, the report said, could empower buyers ‘to request non-smoking environments’ or a discount on cars that had been smoked in previously.

PAPER: Residual tobacco smoke pollution in used cars for sale: Air, dust, and surfaces, Georg E. Matt1,Penelope J. E. Quintana, Melbourne F. Hovell, Dale Chatfield, Debbie S. Ma, Romina Romero and Anna Uribe, Nicotine & Tobacco Research 2008 10(9):1467-1475, ABSTRACT..

Reference: Warning: third hand smoke in second hand cars, Tobacco Reporter, 9/3/2010.

News briefs - third hand smoke:
New Study - children are especially vulnerable to thirdhand smoke..;
Children are especially vulnerable to thirdhand smoke..

Read more...

Philippines - lawmaker files bill to make cigarette-makers share in the health costs of smoking..

AGHAM logo..
September 3, 2010 - AGHAM party-list Representative Angelo Palmones has filed House Bill 2005 to compel cigarette-makers to share in the health costs of smoking.
Palmones: Tobacco companies should allot 5% of their net cigarette sales to pay for testing and hospitalization fees of people who have smoking-related illness, a lawmaker said Thursday.

He cited Department of Health (DOH) studies showing that of an estimated 17 million smokers in the country, 250 die every day or around 90,000 annually. He also mentioned studies stating that around 200,000 Filipino men develop smoking-related diseases, resulting in productivity losses.

"It was estimated in 1999, that to provide healthcare for these sick men, and the loss in productivity, cost Filipino taxpayers some P43 billion (967,705,690.62 USD) ," Palmones added.

Palmones said smoking affects the economy, as productivity is affected when workers tend to use their time for work in smoking. Their livelihood also takes a hit when they become sick because of tobacco use, he added.

Palmones said smoke from cigarettes can cause upper respiratory and pulmonary diseases such as chronic bronchitis, emphysema, bronchiolities, bronchogenic carcinoma, and lung cancer.

"Smoke is irritating to many individuals especially those who are allergic to it and can trigger asthma attack. Laryngitis can also be caused by exposure to heavy tobacco and cigarette smoke," he said.

Reference: Tobacco firms urged to pay for hospital fees, abs-cbnNEWS.com, 9/3/2010.

Philippines - some related news briefs:
Philippines - House of Representatives turns down proposal to hke tax on cigarettes by 400%..;
Philippines - PMI warehouse opens - former smokers that no longer have a voice are upset..;
Philippines - injunction regarding picture health warnings on cigarette packs nationwide..;
Philippines - more and more women dying of lung cancer..;
Philippines - tobacco companies don't want warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - President Aquino has stated he will prioritize increase in the tax on cigarettes..;
Philippines - DOH pushing for hefty tax increase on cigarettes..;
Philippines - Muslim council says smoking is forbidden..;
Philippines - PMFTC has 90% of the tobacco market..;
Philippines - Philip Morris report sales higher than annual 2-3% growth..;
Philippines - National Tobacco Assoc. will oppose any move to reduce demand for tobacco unless govt..;
Philippines - tobacco industry has obtained temporary relief from placing graphic warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - govt agencies and employees barred from unnessary interaction with tobacco industry..;
Philippines - Filipino Muslims forbidden to smoke, trade cigarettes..;
Philippine congress proclaims Aquino 15th president..;
Philippines - tobacco firms claim graphic warnings on cigarette packs are illegal..;
Philippines - new president smokes but this should not slow tobacco prevention activities..:
Philippines - Department of Health wants health warnings on cigarette packs within 90 days..;
Philippines - health groups want more protection from the dangers of tobacco..;
Philippines - DOH warns government agencies to avoid partnerships or accepting donations from tobacco manufacturers..;
Philip Morris Philippines..;
Philippines - DoH pushes for picture warnings on cigarette packs..;
Philippines - PMI - FTC merger may lead smokers continuing to smoke and lure children into a life of nicotine addiction..;
Philippines - PMI and Fortune Tobacco Corp. form new company called PMFTC..;
Philippines - Tanauan City names street Philip Morris..;
Philippines - DOH campaign for 100% smoke-free workplaces..;
Philippines - total tobacco industry could be down 10% to 15% this year..;
Philippines - 2003 ban on advertising and skirting the ban..;
Philippines - June is annually observed as 'No Smoking' Month..;
Philippines may be losing the war against smoking..;
http://snus-news.blogspot.com/2008/11/philippines-thai-cigarette-import-rules.html;
Philip Morris won't postpone Philippines Eraserheads Concert..;
Philip Morris could be criminally liable for its sponsorship of the event .in the Philippines..;
STOP PMI Sponsoring Concert in Philippines..;
Philippines - Smoker to be deported...
Filipino
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Developing World - lifestyle related diseases rivaling infectious disease..

September 2, 2010 - The effort to combat disease in the developing world is becoming less about killer viruses and more about killer products - chiefly tobacco. Developing countries are undergoing a rapid epidemiological transition—from infectious diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia to chronic ones such as heart disease—that threatens to overwhelm their strapped health systems and cripple their fragile economies.

Changes in traditional diets following the arrival of western-style fast food have also contributed to rising rates of "non-communicable" diseases, diabetes and heart disease. Dr Mary Assunta, senior policy adviser to the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) - said these lifestyle-related diseases were now starting to rival the impact of infectious disease in developing nations.

Dr Assunta told AAP: "The trend that you see now in many developing countries is that non-communicable diseases - many of which are tobacco related - are actually catching up with infectious disease and this places a tremendous burden,"

"Out of the 1.2 billion smokers in the world, 80 per cent of those are actually from developing countries or poor and low resourced countries ... It is a huge challenge."

While less than 20 per cent of Australians are smokers, in Indonesia the prevalence of smoking among adults is just over 45 per cent.

Dr Assunta said developing nations, many of which have yet to impose cigarette advertising bans, were "aggressively" targeted by the tobacco industry.

Governments in developing nations were also "burdened with addressing immediate problems" and so could put off action on the longer-term health implications of smoking.

Dr Assunta was chair of a panel at the United Nations DPI/NGO (Department of Public Information/Non-Governmental Organisation) conference, a three day summit in Melbourne which is focussed on the efforts of the NGO (non-government organizations) community in tackling poverty and disease.

The panel was told how the Philippines government now faced a legal challenge from the tobacco industry, as it sought to introduce graphic warning labels like those seen on tobacco products in Australia. (Philippines - injunction regarding picture health warnings on cigarette packs nationwide..)

It also heard how some governments in developing nations relied on funding from tobacco companies - given as "corporate social responsibility" donations - to fund public services including schools. (for example: Tanzania - accepts donations from Alliance One, a leaf tobacco merchant...)

Dr Assunta said there was one "plus" to tackling tobacco as opposed to infectious disease - it did not hinge on scientists looking for an elusive vaccine.

"The plus point for addressing tobacco ... is you need to put in place comprehensive legislation to reduce tobacco use," she said. "And the single most important way is to put up tobacco tax, which must be reflected in expensive and not affordable cigarettes."

Reference: Lifestyle diseases ‘now rival infection’, Smoking-quit.info, 9/2/2010.

Click to enlarge..
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New York State - cigarette tax collection from Native American sales pushed off until 5-judge panel decides..

September 2, 2010 - A state appellate judge Wednesday, September 1st temporarily pushed off the tax collection on Native American sales of cigarettes to non-Indians across New York.

A day after a federal judge granted a two-week reprieve in a related case, a spokeswoman for Gov. David A. Paterson said the state is standing down on the tax collections because of a stay issued Wednesday by Judge Samuel L. Green of the Fourth Department of the State Appellate Division.

The order reinstated a temporary restraining order that had been issued by another state judge in January 2009, according to state officials. (Snyder hails extension of cigarette tax ban by Matt Grytam The Buffalo, News, 1/28/2009; NY Governor signs bill to attempt to curb illegal sale of tax-free cigarettes to non-Indian purchasers..)

A five-judge panel from the appellate court will consider the tax-collection issue in more depth next Thursday, September 9th said Margaret A. Murphy, the Buffalo attorney who persuaded Green to reinstate the restraining order Wednesday.

The governor's office said the state is making efforts to have the injunction lifted once again but, in the meantime, will not enforce the cigarette tax collections against any tribe. "We are disappointed today that the Appellate Division has stayed the implementation of our statute and regulations," Paterson spokeswoman Jessica Bassett said.

Wednesday, September 1st was when state officials had planned to start collecting a $4.35-a-pack sales tax on cigarettes sold to non-Indians. However, a ruling Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara temporarily blocked any collection at the Seneca and Cayuga territories. (New York State - Seneca Nation and other Indian Tribes get injunction from federal judge delaying tax collection on cigarettes..)

Two past governors — Mario M. Cuomo in 1992 and George E. Pataki in 1997 — tried to tax cigarettes sold by Indians, but their efforts ended after violent protests from some of the tribes.

The state case has bearing on tribal territories statewide.

"We asked Judge Green to reinstate the temporary restraining order, and he agreed to do so. We're glad that he took the prudent measure of putting things back at the status quo so the judges can look at it next Thursday," Murphy said.

Murphy represents Scott B. Maybee, a successful Seneca cigarette retailer, and Day Wholesale, a non-Indian cigarette wholesaling company located in Tupper Lake in the Adirondacks. She said that both of her clients would suffer great losses of business if the state efforts go forward.

References: State relents after ruling on cigarette tax Restraining order reinstated by judge by Dan Herbeck and Aaron Besecker News Staff Reporters, The Buffalo News, 9/2/2010; Court Blocks New York Tax on Tribal Cigarette Sales by FERNANDA SANTOS, The New York Times, 9/1/2010.

Some related news briefs:
New York State - Seneca Nation and other Indian Tribes get injunction from federal judge delaying tax collection on cigarettes..;
New York State - Governor Patterson will not tax cigarettes sold among Native Americans..;
New York - Senecas asking for Bloomberg to resign over remarks he made..;
New York State - Seneca Indian Nation files sued to block enforcement of a plan to collect cigarette taxes..;
Read more...

South Dakota - smoking ban campaign moves forward..

September 2, 2010 - Background: South Dakota - smoking ban passed by legislature still must go to a statewide vote.. on November 2, 2010.

Though early numbers may look good for November passage of the smoke-free referendum, Yes on 12 proponents aren’t taking any chances. “We’re going to fight as if we’re one point behind,” said Dr. Allen Nord, chairman of the South Dakota Tobacco Free Kids Network.

Nord and former president of the South Dakota Medical Association Dr. Cynthia Weaver kicked off the Yes on 12 Campaign at Rapid City Regional Hospital on Tuesday, August 31st.

The campaign will include door-to-door voter outreach, town hall meetings and an interactive website at www.smokefreesd.com.

The law would prohibit workplace smoking in all businesses, including bars, restaurants, casinos and video lottery establishments. It passed in the 2009 South Dakota Legislature, but opponents sent the issue to a referendum.

In the past, opponents of the law have argued that it infringes on personal freedoms and will harm businesses. Nord said such claims are unfounded. Research in California, Massachusetts, Oregon, Texas, New York, Florida, Maryland and Kentucky showed that smoke-free ordinances had no negative effect on bar sales, he said. A series of studies of sales tax data from 81 locations in six states shows that smoke-free policies have not had a negative effect on restaurant revenues.

At the same time, researchers have proven that secondhand smoke is dangerous, Nord said. The World Health Organization found that there is “no safe level of exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke,” he said. “The evidence is overwhelming.” (former U.S. Surgeon General Richard Carmona, MD, told reporters: "There is no risk-free level of secondhand smoke exposure.." The Health Consequences of Involuntary Exposure to Tobacco Smoke: A Report of the Surgeon General, June 27, 2006..)

As a physician, Nord said he cares for patients every day who are suffering from smoke-related illnesses. South Dakota taxpayers pay $58 million a year in Medicaid payments for tobacco-related health care costs, he said. Nord said he wants all workers in South Dakota to have the right to work in a safe and healthy environment.

“We believe that everyone deserves to have smoke-free air,” he said. “What it’s really about is the health of workers in South Dakota.”

Phone calls to the Citizens for Individual Freedom, the organization that opposes the tobacco ban, were not returned Tuesday, August 31st.

Reference: Smoking ban campaign begins in Rapid City, Lynn Taylor Rick (lynn.taylorrick@rapidcityjournal.com), Rapid City Journal, 8/31/2010.

South Dakota State Smoking Ban - Developments - related news briefs:
South Dakota - smoking ban one more possible appeal..;
South Dakota - American Cancer Society won't appeal judges decision..;
South Dakota - smoking ban passed by legislature still must go to a statewide vote..;
South Dakota (SD) - judge smoking ban legally eligible for statewide public vote..;
South Dakota - smoking ban, judge won't let ACS call witnesses - as trial nears..;
South Dakota - statewide smoking ban trial date moved to mid-November.;
South Dakota - trial delayed in fight to enforce smoking ban..;
South Dakota - new judge appointed in the smoking ban dispute..
South Dakota - ACS wants smoking ban passed by legislature to begin ASAP..
South Dakota - opponents of smoking ban gain a delay..;
South Dakota - petition rejected - state smoking ban to take effect..;
South Dakota - Secretary of State's Office still counting disputed signatures on the smoking ban petitions..;
South Dakota - anti-smoking leaders challenge petition..;
South Dakota - smoking ban to start July 1, 2009 may be delayed..;
South Dakota - opponents try to stop extended smoking ban..;
South Dakota - extends smoking ban effective July 1, 2009...
Read more...

Wichita, Kansas - judge extends state smoking ban..

September 2, 2010 - On August 31, 2010, Sedgwick County District Judge Jeff Goering lifted a temporary restraining order that had prevented the statewide indoor smoking ban from applying to Wichita's businesses. The ban took effect as soon as Goering signed off on his ruling. It has applied to the rest of the state since July 1, 2010.

Background: Back on Friday, June 26th a Sedgwick County judge issued a temporary restraining order that will prevent a statewide indoor smoking ban from going into effect next week in the city of Wichita.

On Thursday, July 1, 2010 - Kansas joined nearly 40 states that have some statewide restrictions on where smokers can light up. (Kansas - governor signed into law the Clean Indoor Air legislation..)

District Judge Eric Yost issued the order, which would allow Wichita businesses to continue operating under the city's smoking ordinance at least until July 15. The injunction had no effect on businesses outside the Wichita city limits. In his order, Yost scheduled a July 15 hearing to determine whether the temporary restraining order should be extended. VIDEO - Hearing in Wichita smoking ban delayed until August.., KWCH.com, 7/9/2010.

Wichita, Kanaas - city's smoking ordinance more stringent than state law..

In his ruling, the judge defended the Legislature's right to regulate smoking in Kansas. Judge Goering: "The scope and breadth of that regulation is a matter of public policy, and it is not for this Court to second guess the wisdom of that policy." But he also chided the state for using a double standard of allowing smoking in state-owned casinos while banning it in private businesses.

Among the plaintiffs' arguments was that Wichita's smoking ordinance — which allowed indoor smoking in businesses that prohibit minors or establish separate, ventilated smoking rooms — is more stringent than the state's and should be the controlling law in Wichita.

But in his ruling, Goering wrote, "There is no question (the state's law) is the more stringent."

Reference: Judge's ruling extends smoking ban to Wichita by RICK PLUMLEE (rplumlee@wichitaeagle.com), Wichita Eagle, 9/1/2010.

Related Kansas news briefs:
VIDEO - Topeka, Kansas under both city and state smoking bans..;
Kansas - goes smoke-free on July 1, 2010..;
Wichita, Kansas - city's smoking ordinance more stringent than state law..;
Kansas - governor signed into law the Clean Indoor Air legislation..;
Kansas - public smoking ban effective July 1, 2010..;
University of Kansas (KU) bans sale of tobacco starting July 1, 2010..;
Topeka, Kansas - opponents of smoking ban may drop petition drive..;
Kansas - cigarette tax hike likely in 2010..;
Topeka, Kansas - some petitions to overthrow smoking ban missing..;
Topeka, Kansas - smoking ban takes effect Friday, December 4, 2010..;
Topeka, Kansas to ban public smoking indoors and at places of employment December 4, 2010..;
Kansas - cigarette makers fined, failed to pay into escrow accounts..;
Kansas City, Missouri - court upholds smoking ban..;
Read more...