On Jan. 1, Maine’s bars go smoke free. This is a great day for public health, for the men and women who work in bars and for people who go to bars. However, I know that some people are concerned about the possible economic effects of this ban on bar owners and that some people are skeptical about the benefits of smoke-free environments.

In New York City, there was $15.2 million in beer and tobacco taxes collected in August (after the ban was in effect) compared to $14.4 million the previous August (when no ban was in effect). In addition, between March and June (again, after the ban) of last year, 10,000 new restaurant and bar jobs were created.

Now, about the health benefits of smoke-free environments. Eight hours working in a bar where smoking is allowed is the equivalent of smoking a pack a day. In such an environment, workers more than double their chances of developing cancer and asthma, and pregnant workers put themselves at risk for miscarriage or underweight babies.

The city of Helena, Mont., experienced a 58 percent reduction in its heart attack rate six months after a comprehensive tobacco ban was put in place, only to see rates soar after the legislature overturned the ban.

Once again, Maine is a leader in comprehensive tobacco control. Together, we are creating healthier communities and healthier people.

Joe Wyman, project director,

Healthy Oxford Hills,

a Healthy Maine Partnership,

Norway