New law bans indoor smoking on Navajo Nation - KJZZ

WINDOW ROCK, Ariz. (KUTV) — Navajo Nation leaders said Saturday they signed the Air is Life Act in law to promote a healthier and smoke-free community.

The “Nich’ Éí Bee Ííná – Air is Life Act of 2021” law prohibits the use of "commercial tobacco products in enclosed and indoor areas on the Navajo Nation."

This includes cigarettes, pipes, cigars, e-cigarettes, and smokeless tobacco products like chewing tobacco, they said.

Navajo Nation President Jonathan Nez and Vice President Myron Lizer were joined by other leaders Saturday as the act was signed into law.

"Smoke-free laws have been shown to improve indoor air quality, reduce secondhand smoke exposure, change social norms regarding the acceptability of smoking, prevent youth and young adult smoking addiction, and reduce heart attack and asthma hospitalizations among nonsmokers. As leaders, we have to ensure the well-being and health of our Navajo citizens,” Lizer stated.

The ban applies to workplaces, public places and areas within 25 feet of any indoor area across the Navajo Nation, they said. This includes the tribe's casinos.

“We need to protect our people at all costs and this includes our hard working staff employed by the casinos," said Delegate Nathaniel Brown. "We all know the health risks from commercial tobacco, including deadly cancers. Life is sacred and this resolution sends that message across Indian Country today.”

Nez and Lizer shared on social media that the new law does not apply to private residences unless they are also businesses.

They emphasized that the law also does not apply to ceremonial settings or cultural purposes within the Navajo Nation.

Officials said the law will be enforced by those with the Navajo Department of Health and the Navajo Nation Division of Public Safety, who will issue violations for any penalties.

“We commend the diligent work of the Air is Life Coalition for paving the way for us to be here today,” said Chairman Daniel Tso. "The Navajo Nation Council has spoken loudly that the health of the Navajo people is valuable and not to be gambled with.”

source: https://kjzz.com/news/local/new-law-bans-indoor-smoking-on-navajo-nation

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