MINNEAPOLIS, January 31, 2008—A new survey by ClearWay Minnesota finds that 76 percent of Minnesotans support the statewide smoke-free law, with 44 percent indicating strong support.

The results provides evidence of support among all important demographics: geography, political and ideological affiliation, income, age and gender. 

Key findings:

• Support for the smoke-free law has increased by 7 percent since a survey before the law was passed and implemented, last year.
• Because of the law, Minnesota smokers are smoking less and thinking about quitting.
• A decisive majority of Minnesotans – 82 percent – view secondhand smoke as a health hazard.

Strong majorities in every part of the state support a smoke-free law (72 percent in the Twin Cities metro; 80 percent in the east metro; 75 percent in northern Minnesota; and 79 percent in southern Minnesota).

In addition to clearing the air in workplaces, the smoke-free law is also helping to support Minnesotans who want to reduce or quit smoking. In December, ClearWay Minnesota and other major health plans reported increased demand for quitting services after the law went into effect. In addition, respondents who smoke reported smoking less and seriously considering quitting as a result of the smoke-free law.

For more information on QUITPLAN Services, call 952-767-1400 or visit www.clearwaymn.org.

The survey was conducted by Minneapolis research firm Decision Resources, Ltd.