On June 18, 2004, Governor Romney signed landmark legislation creating
smoke-free workplaces throughout the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
beginning on July 5, 2004. 

Dr. Janice B. Yost, President and CEO of The Health Foundation, representing
Central Massachusetts at the State House bill signing ceremony, addressed the
crowd of public health activists, including members of the Coalition for a Healthy Future.


Dr. Yost and youth leaders share the excitement at the State House bill signing
ceremony on June 18, 2004.                                     Photo courtesy of T.J. Sweeney

Click here to visit the Massachusetts Department of Public Health's
website for more information on the Massachusetts Smoke-free Workplace Law.

The Health Foundation, and many other health organizations and individuals,
advocated for the passage of this law to reduce the public's exposure to
second-hand smoke, which causes cancer in non-smokers.  Click here to learn
more about the local advocacy campaign:

• Position Statement from The Health Foundation
• Surgeon General Issues New Report on Smoking
• May 19, 2004: Smoking Policy would offer protection
• House Approves Smoking Ban 10/22/03
• Senate Approves Smoking Ban 11/19/03
• Governor Romney Says He Will Sign 11/24/03
• New Smoking Laws Make Work Sites Equal
• Going Smoke-Free Is A Step Forward
• New Study Shows Smoking Ban Reduces Heart Attacks
• Advocacy Day May 7, 2003