Many communities in Vermont prohibit smoking on town-owned properties. One community is moving one step further by barring all tobacco use on its properties.
Effective August 1st, the town of Sharon, Vermont has prohibited smoking and the use of all tobacco products, including smokeless tobacco, at all town-owned properties, including buildings and in vehicles. The town will actively refer employees and citizens to smoking cessation programs and provide time and incentives for individuals actively engaged in those programs. Town of Sharon Selectboard Chair Paul Haskell.
Haskell adds that the community has been successful with a number of healthy lifestyle initiatives, including a farm-to-table program at the elementary school.
Health Connections of the Upper Valley Executive Director Cathy Hazlett advocated for, and helped draft, the town of Sharon’s tobacco free policy.
American Lung Association of Vermont Health Education and Public Policy Director Rebecca Ryan notes that communities across the nation are looking at creating broader smoke-free policies.
The Sharon policy includes active outreach to local businesses to aid in posting tobacco-free zones. Selectboard Chair Paul Haskell has encountered enthusiastic response to the idea.
The Vermont Quit Network provides both online and phone support for smokers seeking help to stop smoking.