The American Lung Association has voiced its concern following the enactment of Assembly Bill 1775, which permits food service in cannabis consumption lounges. The association argues that this new law compromises the progress made over decades in protecting Californians from secondhand smoke exposure.
"By the legislature passing and Governor Newsom signing AB 1775, California has taken a significant step backward in safeguarding public health," stated Kesa Bruce, Director of Advocacy for the American Lung Association in California. Bruce emphasized that "rolling back California’s smokefree law will expose more workers and patrons to the harmful effects of secondhand cannabis smoke, which contains many of the same toxic chemicals found in tobacco smoke, often in higher concentrations."
The association outlined several concerns with AB 1775:
1. Increased exposure to secondhand cannabis smoke for workers and patrons.
2. Potential health risks such as respiratory issues and cardiovascular effects due to exposure.
3. Erosion of California's robust smokefree workplace protections.
4. Loss of California’s status as a leader in reducing exposure to secondhand smoke.
Research indicates that secondhand cannabis smoke contains particulate matter similar to that found in tobacco smoke, which is linked to lung and heart disease.
"The American Lung Association urges local jurisdictions to carefully consider the public health implications when implementing this law," said Bruce. The organization remains committed to advocating for completely smokefree environments and educating the public about the dangers associated with both tobacco and cannabis secondhand smoke.
For further information on the health risks posed by secondhand cannabis smoke, individuals are encouraged to visit Lung.org.
