NEW ORLEANS — The New Orleans Health Department (NOHD), in collaboration with the NOLA Smoke-Free Coalition partners, proudly announces the 10th anniversary of the New Orleans Smoke-Free Air Act (SFAA), a landmark public health policy that has protected residents, workers, and visitors from the harmful effects of secondhand smoke since its passage in 2015.
In recognition of the anniversary, Mayor Cantrell issued an official proclamation declaring April 22, 2025, as “New Orleans Smoke-Free Air Act 10-Year Anniversary Day” in the City of New Orleans. The proclamation encourages all residents to celebrate by continuing to support initiatives that promote clean air, public health, and a smoke-free community.
“Leading the charge for the Smoke-Free NOLA ordinance in 2015 was one of the most meaningful public health initiatives I’ve been a part of. This policy was about protecting our people—especially those working in bars, casinos, and public venues—from the dangers of secondhand smoke,” said Mayor LaToya Cantrell. “As we celebrate this anniversary, I remain proud of the progress we’ve made and committed to building a healthier, stronger New Orleans for generations to come. I’m also grateful to our partners on the council and in the community who continue to stand with us in this effort.”
To commemorate this major milestone, representatives from NOHD and the NOLA Smoke-Free Coalition will also receive a proclamation from the New Orleans City Council later in the week to reflect on a decade of progress in creating healthier, smoke-free spaces across our city.
“This is more than just an anniversary. This ordinance has helped shift the culture toward health, equity, and cleaner air for all,” said Dr. Jennifer Avegno, Director of the New Orleans Health Department. “As we celebrate this milestone, we’re reminded of what’s possible when communities and leaders come together to put public health first.”
The success of this legislation is a testament to the advocacy and dedication of public health professionals, community organizations, business owners, and residents who championed the cause of a smoke-free New Orleans, including musicians Craig Klein, Deacon John Moore, and Paul Sanchez; courageous former casino employee Maseo Bevrotte – who has since passed from lung cancer; former City Councilmember Susan Guidry, who served as a council sponsor of the Smoke-Free Air Act; former New Orleans Health Department staff Dr. Karen DeSalvo, Charlotte Parent, & Sarah Babcock; musicians advocate Kathy Richard of the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living (TFL) and the New Orleans Musicians Clinic; former TFL Director, Tonia Moore; Executive Director of End Tobacco, Jennifer Cofer; former ACS-CAN Director Lydia Kuykendal; and organizations such as the American Heart Association, the American Cancer Society-Cancer Action Network(ACS-CAN), the American Lung Association, Americans for Non-Smokers Rights, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the Louisiana Cancer Research Center, the Louisiana Public Health Institute, LSU-Health Sciences Center New Orleans, Ochsner Health, the Tobacco Control Institute, Tobacco Free Louisiana, Well-Ahead Louisiana, and the Louisiana Campaign for Tobacco-Free Living and many others whose efforts were instrumental in advancing this public health initiative.
Why “Smoke-Free” is Important
The Smoke-Free initiative protects the public’s health by reducing exposure to secondhand smoke and encouraging smokers to quit. Tobacco use is the leading preventable cause of death in the United States. It causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases (such as emphysema), and diabetes. More than 20 million people in the United States have died from smoking-related diseases since 1964, including 2.5 million nonsmokers as a result of exposure to secondhand smoke.
The SFAA has gained substantial support, with residents backing initiatives for a clean-air city. Over the past decade, the Act has had a profound impact on public health, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke in workplaces, bars, casinos, and public venues. It has also served as a model for cities across the region working to implement similar protections.
Polling indicates that 75% of residents feel their quality of life has improved since the Act’s passage, and 77% want to restrict smoking near doorways. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of alternative products, such as vapes, suggests that addressing these items will represent the next critical phase in the pursuit of enhanced public health standards.
Educational Outreach Event
The NOHD and coalition partners will also host a series of public events and educational activities to honor this achievement and highlight the ongoing importance of smoke-free policies. Join us at Lafayette Square for Wednesdays at the Square from 5 pm to 8 pm, booth 1, South Maestri St., New Orleans, LA.
Quick Resources:
Health Policy – Topics – Smoke-Free Ordinance – City of New Orleans
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For more information about the Smoke-Free Air Act and resources, visit Health Policy – Topics – Smoke-Free Ordinance – City of New Orleans.
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