City Council to mark 10 years of New Orleans smoking ban

NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — It’s hard to believe that it has been 10 years since smoking was banned in bars and casinos in New Orleans.

We take a look at the effects of the smoking ban and work left to do to make us healthier.

Smoking was still allowed in bars and casinos until January of 2015 when then mayor Mitch Landrieu signed the NOLA Smoke-Free Ordinance, making us a healthier New Orleans.

“It basically required what is called a ‘comprehensive smoke free policy.’ Comprehensive means that it closes that loophole in the state law to cover bars, casinos, music venues and other things that would be covered under that,” said Regional Manager of Tobacco Free Louisiana New Orleans region Bradley Wellons.

According to recently released data from the New Orleans Health Department, 75% of residents report life in the city is better because of the Smoke Free Air Act.

Wellons said many of our treasured musicians were on the front lines fighting for their health and that of patrons as well.

“They were one of the driving forces behind getting this passed Craig Klein, Deacon John,” said Wellons.

While the City Council will honor this 10-year milestone on Thursday, April 17, Wellons says there is still work to be done, especially among young people with vaping.

“It’s the biggest one we’re seeing. That along with what we call alternative tobacco products and flavors. The new nicotine pouches, such as Zyn, would be one of the ones that most people would have heard about. Those are the tobacco products are actually increasing in use,” said Wellons.

Resources on helping you quit and health screenings are available at the Tobacco Free Living website.

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