22nd Annual Student Research Conference
The Economic Impact of the Kirksville Smoke-Free Ordinance
Leslie A. Moss*, Brittany D. Schultehenrich, Weslee Chew, Julie M. Hasken, and Nancy K. Johnson
Dr. Carol Cox, Faculty Mentor
Despite evidence of health consequences related to second-hand smoke, some argue that smoke-free ordinances negatively affect the economy. Reputable studies have demonstrated that this argument is invalid. The purpose of this study was to quantify the impact of the smoke-free ordinance on Kirksville's economy. Pre-post clean air policy revenue data was gathered from the MO Department of Revenue records for one year: July 2007 - June 2008. When compared to the previous year, revenues demonstrated no significant change in either direction. It is not advisable to evaluate economic impact based only on four quarters of data; extensive collection is necessary to assess the outcome of passing clean indoor air policy. It is also important to look at non-tangible benefits. The World Health Assembly called for smoke-free policy to protect citizens from adverse health effects of second-hand smoke. Restaurants and bars also save money by reducing insurance and maintenance costs.
Keywords: smoke-free, policy, economy, Kirksville, health, second hand smoke
Topic(s):Health Science
Economics
Presentation Type: Poster
Session: 5-1
Location: PML
Time: 4:15