No one should have to choose between between air and a job

To the editor:

I am a 45-year resident of Alaska. I’m also a grandmother of eight. I wholeheartedly support legislation for a statewide smoke-free workplace.

I have a very personal interest in the passing of this legislation. Of my eight grandchildren, five of them have asthma. They range in ages from 3 to 18. The oldest grandson has a job with an employer who doesn’t allow smoking in the business. However, there is the possibility that he may have to move to an employer who doesn’t value the air their employees breathe. This would be a life-threatening situation. Everyone deserves to breathe clean air.

The health of our children and families are at stake.

Asthma doesn’t go away. Inhaling second-hand smoke can be prevented by passing the current legislation and is the right thing to do to protect the health and safety of employees and consumers. No one should have to choose between breathing clean air and a good job.

I urge our legislators to pass the proposed legislation, which supports a statewide smoke-free workplace. This legislation will put all businesses, consumers and employees on the same level playing field.

Terrie Irwin

Wasilla