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] � � � � � , � � C� Cl E� E3 [� LS I� L� L8 1� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �� �B �9 3� 3l 3� �3 �� �� 3� 3� ]8 3� � �F L �.� �� � �5 �� �t separation of smokers and nonsmokers, nor the introduction of new ventilation systems, can eliminate the health hazards caused by secondhand smoke. Employees in smoky workplaces are at special risk. One study has estimated that working in a smoky bar for eight hours is equivalent to smoking 16 cigarettes. Also at special risk are children, elderly people, and those with cardiovascular disease or impaired respiratory function, including people with asthma and those with obstructive airway disease. Objective evidence does not bear out the fear that elimination ofpublic smoking will harm a community's economy or result in a net loss of jobs in restaurants and bars. On the contrary, many independent economic studies have shown that the elimination of smoking has no material economic impact on a community. These studies are drawn from the experience of hundreds of communities that have successfully eliminated smoking in workplaces and public places. The states of California, Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, and New York have adopted laws ending all smoking in bars, restaurants, and other public places, as have the nations of Ireland, New Zealand and Norway. By reducing the exposure of young people to adult smoking and unhealthy role modeling, elimination of smoking in public places furthers Minnesota's goal of reducing youth smoking. There is no legal or constitutional "right to smoke." Business owners have no legal or constitutional right to expose their employees and customers to toxic chemicals, whether in tobacco smoke or otherwise. On the contrary, employers have a common law duty to provide their workers with a workplace that is not unreasonably dangerous. Accordingly, the City Council finds and declares that the purpose of this ordinance is to: (1) (2� (3) Protect the public health, welfare and safety by better ensuring the ability of citizens to breathe safe and uncontaminated air; Affirm that the right to breathe has priority over the desire to smoke; and Protect vulnerable populations, including employees, children, the elderly and those with chronic health conditions. Sec.238.02 De�nitions. Public Smoking ord final draft Thune 7-28-04.wPa Page 2 of 6