Sweden to Become World's 5th Smokefree Country

Smokefree workplace legislation happening throughout the world

Sweden, 12/17/03... Sweden's Health Minister, Morgan Johansson, announced today that Sweden will implement smokefree workplace regulations, including restaurants and bars, on July 1, 2005.  The plan has the backing of Sweden's ruling Social Democrats, the Green Party, and the Left Party.

"Smokefree workplace laws are happening for a good reason," says Joe Cherner, founder of BREATHE-- Bar and Restaurant Employees Advocating Together for a Healthy Environment.  "Tobacco smoke causes cancer, respiratory illness, and heart disease.  No one should have to breathe it to hold a job."

Sweden will join Ireland, Norway, New Zealand, and Bhutan as the world's first smokefree workplace countries.