Children are Protected from Secondhand Smoke in Cars
The American Lung Association of California scored an important victory for children’s health in 2007 when it secured legislation (SB 7) prohibiting adults from smoking in cars when minors are present.
Regulations Reduce Deadly Diesel Exhaust
Despite strong opposition from the construction industry, the American Lung Association of California helped secure new regulations in 2007 for off-road diesel equipment that will result in a 75-percent reduction in health-damaging diesel soot from off-road diesel engines by 2020.
Landmark Global Warming Bill Caps Greenhouse Gas
The American Lung Association of California successfully fought for landmark legislation (AB 32) in 2006 that set the nation’s first statewide cap on global warming pollution. The law calls for a 25-percent cut in greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 and establishes a tracking system to monitor progress and make sure the cuts happen.
Respiratory Rallies Support People with COPD
Daylong conferences that give people with COPD and other chronic lung diseases the tools they need to cope with their disease were launched statewide in 2006. The American Lung Association of California now offers the Respiratory Rallies in communities across the state.
Legislation Limits Ozone From Indoor Air Cleaning Devices
Thanks to legislation (AB 2276) passed in 2006 and sponsored by the American Lung Association of California, Californians are now protected from so-called indoor “air purifiers” that actually pollute the air. The law limits harmful ozone emissions and bans the worst offenders.
Children Now Have Access to Life-Saving Medications
Children can carry their asthma inhalers with them at school thanks to a law (AB 2132) that went into effect in 2005. The American Lung Association of California championed the bill because asthma symptoms can come on quickly and instant access to prescribed medications can be critical.
Flag Alert Program Protects Kids From Unhealthy Air
The American Lung Association of California launched its Air Quality FLAG Program in 2004 to help schools in Southern California warn students, parents, and school personnel when air quality is bad. The program uses color-coded flags that fly in front of the school and indicate how healthy the air is that day.
Smoke-Free Entryway Law Reduces Smoke Exposure
To help protect people from secondhand smoke outdoors, the American Lung Association of California helped secure legislation (AB 846) in 2003 banning smoking within 20 feet of entryways, exits and windows of all state, county and city-owned buildings as well as buildings on campuses in the state’s University of California, California State University, and California Community Colleges systems.
Smoke-Free Workplace Act of 1994 Launches Nationwide Movement
As a key player in securing smoke-free workplaces in California (including bars and restaurants) through the passage of AB 13, the American Lung Association of California contributed to a significant public health victory that launched a nationwide – and now worldwide – effort to protect people from the deadly effects of secondhand smoke.
