MINNEAPOLIS, October 1, 2008 – As Minnesota's smoke-free law reaches its one-year anniversary, its popularity puts it on a par with some of the state's most beloved icons.

A survey by Clearway Minnesota found that an overwhelming 77 percent of Minnesotans support the Freedom to Breathe Act, with 41 percent indicating strong support. That compares to the popularity rating of walleye dinners (89 percent), Minnesota State Fair (86 percent), Minnesota Twins (83 percent), Minnesota Vikings (77 percent), Mall of America (69 percent) and State Fair Pronto Pups (69 percent).

The survey also provides evidence of strong support for the statewide smoke-free law among all leading demographics, including geography, political and ideological affiliation, income, age and gender. The survey was conducted by Minneapolis research firm Decision Resources, Ltd.

“One year after the smoke-free law went into effect, Minnesotans are happier than ever about it,” said David Willoughby, Chief Executive Officer of ClearWay Minnesota. “Not only is the law as popular with the public as the Minnesota Vikings, it’s more popular than State Fair Pronto Pups – and much better for your heart, too.”

Other key findings from the survey include:

• A decisive majority of Minnesotans – 85 percent – view secondhand smoke as a health hazard.
• By an overwhelming margin – 86 to 11 percent – Minnesotans believe that restaurants and bars are healthier for customers and employees now that they are smoke-free. 
• Strong majorities in every part of the state support the smoke-free law (75 percent in the Twin Cities; 81 percent in the west metro; 80 percent in the east metro; 73 percent in northern Minnesota; and 79 percent in southern Minnesota).

“The Freedom to Breathe Act has been an unqualified success in its first year,” said Willoughby. “Not only is it overwhelmingly popular with Minnesotans, but it has also improved the health of bar and restaurant workers.”

Source: www.clearwaymn.org