LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) has released a study that analyzed the economic effects of the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law.
The study found that there has been no significant negative effect on overall sales and monthly Keno sales at Michigan bar and restaurants.
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An analysis of the economic impact was conducted using sales tax collections from Michigan retail eating and drinking establishments as well as from Club Keno sales.
Data was evaluated from 2006 to 2011 to see whether sales were lower after the ban took effect in 2010.
"It is important to note that while some establishments saw sales fluctuations after the passage of the Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law, bars and restaurants as a whole were not adversely affected," said James K. Havemen, Director of the MDCH. "We commend Michigan bars and restaurants for their support in transitioning to a smoke-free environment as this law has also drastically improved the air quality in these establishments. There is no question that Michiganders have a healthier environment because of this important piece of legislation."
In December 2009, the ban was signed into law, making Michigan the 38th state to protect bar and restaurant workers and the public from exposure to secondhand smoke in the workplace.
Enforcement of the law began in May 1st of 2010.
"The Dr. Ron Davis Smoke-Free Air Law continues to do its job by eliminating exposure to secondhand smoke and providing a healthier environment for Michigan employees, the public and our visitors," said Dr. Dean Sienko, Interim Chief Medical Executive at MDCH.
For more information about the smoke-free law, click HERE.