Going smoke-free a ‘no-brainer’

To the editor:

I am writing as a former smoker. I frequently recall the many years when I smoked in my workplaces. In earlier times, I truly (along with many others) was not aware of the serious consequences of secondhand smoke on other folks, including those who never smoked.

This recall leaves me with regret and embarrassment at the thought of having exposed so many friends and co-workers to real health risks. Today, the scientific evidence is overwhelmingly clear that exposure to secondhand smoke contributes to heart and lung diseases. So, removing smoking from indoor workplaces, business and public spaces becomes a “no-brainer.”

The personal grief and public costs are far too great — actually, unacceptable. I am urging our Alaska legislators to act quickly to pass a smoke-free workplace law as a bold measure to protect all Alaskans.

John Brubaker

Palmer