HIGHLIGHTS OF PUBLIC OPINION SURVEY In November 2000, a public opinion survey found that a clear majority (74 per cent) of this city's population favours a by-law that would make all enclosed public places 100% smoke-free (meaning no allowance for designated smoking rooms). That number is up from 67 per cent just one year ago. More detailed findings of the poll are: 1. Support for completely smoke-free restaurants is at 71 per cent, compared to 67 per cent a year ago. Most people polled want completely smoke-free bars (57 per cent, an increase from 50 per cent last year). A vast majority (81 per cent) also called, "the silent majority," who don't like second-hand smoke but feel uncomfortable speaking out about it.   2. Most people surveyed (60 per cent) said they would frequent restaurants more often if the establishments were smoke-free. Almost half would visit bars more often. The public is growing increasingly intolerant of second-hand smoke to the point where they stay away. Business owners have the potential to gain many new customers after implementation of stricter no-smoking by-laws. That's one reason numerous studies have found that profits generally don't decrease, and can even increase, when a community goes smoke-free.   Background.  Objectives. Primary Results. Conclusion.
Smoke-Free Laws Survey Results	HOME