The Minnesota Legislature has considered the proposed Freedom to Breathe Act since 2004. If you want action in 2007, let your elected officials know by using the tools provided below.

The Freedom to Breathe Act would make all Minnesota workplaces smoke-free, including bars and restaurants.  The act would protect the right of all Minnesotans to breathe free of the devastating harms and costs of secondhand smoke.  As it has been debated in the Minnesota Legislature, outdoor seating at restaurants and bars would include smoke-free sections.  Public transportation areas would be covered, and daycare providers would have to disclose whether or not smoking is permitted in the facility during non-operational hours.

The proposal is modeled after successful smoke-free laws in California, Delaware, New York and other states to fully protect the right of people to breathe clean indoor air at work and in public places.  Seven states and 135 municipalities around the U.S. have now passed such comprehensive protections.  In Minnesota, 10 cities and six counties have passed comprehensive or partial protections.  (See list).

History in the Legislature

In 2004, the Freedom to Breathe Act passed out of committee in the Minnesota Senate but did not receive a hearing in the House. The bill, sponsored by Sen. Scott Dibble and Rep. Ron Latz, was endorsed by prominent Minnesota leaders including former U.S. Senator Dave Durenberger and former Governors Arne Carlson, Al Quie and Wendell Anderson.