SENATE BILL REPORT

ESB 6460

BYSenators Smith, Bailey, Kiskaddon, Benitz, Craswell, Lee and Anderson

Prohibiting the use of tobacco on school property.

Senate Committee on Education

Senate Hearing Date(s):January 20, 1988; January 26, 1988

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended.

      Signed by Senators Bailey, Chairman; Kiskaddon, Vice Chairman; Benitz, Craswell, Lee.

Senate Staff:Don Bennett (786-7424)

                  February 18, 1988

AS PASSED SENATE, FEBRUARY 16, 1988

BACKGROUND:

The health risks associated with smoking or chewing tobacco products have been the subject of many years of research and debate.  The familiar U.S. Surgeon General's warnings required on cigarette packages by federal law have become increasingly specific in recent years identifying the risks of cancer, heart and lung diseases, and low birth weight in children of women who smoke during pregnancy.

Most school districts in the state prohibit smoking by students on school property, while other districts attempt to accommodate smoking students and staff by providing designated smoking areas.  A few districts have adopted policies which prohibit smoking on all school property by employees and students.

SUMMARY:

Each school district board of directors shall adopt a written policy prohibiting tobacco use by students and staff on school property.

Appropriation:    none

Revenue:    none

Fiscal Note:      none requested

Senate Committee - Testified: Leann Chaney, Washington State PTA (for); Edward A. Root, Citizen (for); Nancy Descheemacker, American Lung Association (for); Mike Ryherd, Washington State Medical Association (for); Bill Fritz, Tobacco Institute (against); Kathleen Durkan, Philip Morris, U.S.A. (against); Dwayne Slate, Washington State School Directors Association (against); Kris Van Gorkom, Washington Association of School Administrators