"The results of this survey demonstrate how quickly the smoke-free law has been embraced by all Minnesotans," said David Willoughby, Chief Executive Officer of ClearWay Minnesota. "We can now add the love of fresh indoor air to the list of things that define us as Minnesotans."
Other key findings from the survey include: -- Support for the smoke-free law has increased by 7 percent since a similar survey was taken prior to the law''s passage and implementation in 2007. -- Minnesota smokers are smoking less and thinking about quitting as a result of the law. -- 19 percent report smoking fewer cigarettes -- 22 percent report that they are seriously considering quitting -- A decisive majority of Minnesotans -- 82 percent -- view secondhand smoke as a health hazard. -- Strong majorities in every part of the state support a smoke-free law (72 percent in the Twin Cities metro; 80 percent in the east metro; 75 percent in northern Minnesota; and 79 percent in southern Minnesota).
"I have been surveying Minnesotans on public policy issues for 24 years," said Bill Morris, President of Decision Resources. "These results are impressive because of the sheer intensity of support for the new law across all groups. Minnesotans have decisively made up their mind in favor of a smoke-free Minnesota."
In addition to clearing the air in workplaces, the smoke-free law is also helping to support Minnesotans who want to reduce or quit smoking. In December, ClearWay Minnesota and other major health plans reported increased demand for quitting services after the law went into effect. In addition, respondents who smoke reported smoking less and seriously considering quitting as a result of the smoke-free law.
"We are seeing the benefits of the smoke-free law extend beyond just making our workplaces healthier for employees and customers. The smoke-free law is helping to motivate Minnesotans to consider quitting now, and that is great news," concluded Willoughby.
Methodology
The 2022 study contains the results of a survey administered to 800 randomly selected 2006 voters across the state of Minnesota. Professional interviewers conducted the survey by telephone between January 10 and 21, 2022. The typical respondent took eight minutes to complete the questionnaire. The non-response rate was 3.9%. The results of the study are projectable to all adult Minnesota residents within ± 3.5 % in 95 out of 100 cases.
To view complete survey results, visit
ClearWay Minnesota(SM) is an independent, non-profit organization that improves the health of Minnesotans by reducing the harm caused by tobacco. ClearWay Minnesota serves Minnesota through its grant-making program, through QUITPLAN? Services and through statewide outreach activities. It is funded with 3 percent of the state''s 1998 tobacco settlement.
For more information on QUITPLAN Services, call 952-767-1400 or visit
Source: ClearWay Minnesota
