Taking local action: The politics of passing a smokefree law

Working on local smokefree air laws is one of the most cost-effective public health measures. The process of enacting such laws acts as an educational campaign on the dangers of secondhand smoke for the entire community, while the law itself both protects nonsmokers from exposure to secondhand smoke, and helps people to reduce smoking or stop entirely. But, because of the ever-present opposition of the tobacco industry, its allies, and its front groups, campaigns to enact smokefree laws are often difficult and must be intelligently waged.

Councilman Robert "Bobby" Curran, an ex-smoker, has sought for the last several years to pass smoke-free legislation in Baltimore, Maryland. He has worked tirelessly with advocates, held hearings, interacted with opponents, cajoled, twisted arms, and maneuvered. He has also spoken extensively with colleagues in other cities around the country that have successfully passed legislation. A fixture in Baltimore politics, Councilman Curran will provide a colorful picture of the politics of smokefree legislation at the local level.