Contrary to what many opponents of the Smoke-Free Arizona Act claimed before its passage in November of 2006, this report states that the Act did not result in any distinguishable large-scale economic effect on the restaurant and bar industry in Arizona. This conclusion is consistent with most studies that have examined the effect of smoking bans by analyzing actual sales data. 

"My hope is that Arizona will now become one more example of how the creation of a smoke-free state can be done without having a serious impact on local businesses," said Bill J. Pfeifer, President & CEO of the American Lung Association of Arizona.

 

Based on the survey, some establishments such as bars with large, well-furnished outdoor patios indicated that they were actually benefiting from the smoking ban, while others with only inside seating may have not.

 

"By and large, Arizona smokers and business owners respectfully complied with the Smoke Free Arizona Act and we are all appreciative to them for making a smooth transition to a smoke-free Arizona," said Will Humble, Deputy Director of the Arizona Department of Health Services. 
 

For more information about the Smoke-Free Arizona Act or to view the full report, please visit www.smokefreearizona.org or call 1-877-297-8677.