HARRISBURG, Pa. — More than 400 students from across the Commonwealth gathered at the State Capitol for the American Lung Association’s 18th annual “Day at the Capitol" on Tuesday.
Students joined with advocates to speak with state lawmakers about tightening Pennsylvania’s tobacco control laws. Many of those in attendance say it’s an issue that hits close to home.
“My mom, Amy Ripley-Snyder, died last January because of stage four lung cancer,” said Amyrah Moumouni-Snyder, a student at Dauphin County Technical School. “She was not aware of how harmful it was not only to herself but to her kids.”
Advocates are calling on state lawmakers to strengthen Pennsylvania’s Clean Indoor Air Act. Around 1,300 establishments, including casinos and some bars, are currently exempt from the rule, which health officials say is exposing workers to secondhand smoke.
“It’s really a protection for the workers so that they’re not breathing in that toxic air all day,” said Tony Delonti, manager of health promotions with the American Lung Association. “If you’re inside and the air you’re breathing has those toxins we’re talking about, they’re going to affect the lungs.”
Students said the loopholes not only affect workers in those establishments but consumers as well. They argue that people with asthma are particularly at risk.
“I have asthma, so it's very important to me that we have clean areas where nobody is smoking or vaping,” said Paige Miller, a student at Halifax High School.
“It’s probably the most terrifying and gut-wrenching feeling when you’re around a smoker and you feel the walls closing in,” said Teyanna Johnson. “I’d rather have no one experience that.”
State Representative Dan Frankel and State Senator Jay Costa have both sponsored legislation that would close loopholes in the current Clean Indoor Air Act.
Rep. Frankel’s bill, House Bill 1657, was passed out of committee and is currently awaiting an official House vote.