Scarcnet News Summaries (Advocacy Institute)
WA's Secretary Of State To Propose Denying Jobs Based On Tobacco Use
Date: 07 Jan 1999
Length: pages
Length: pages
Abstract
In the state of Washington, Secretary of State Ralph Munro is seeking to introduce legislation that would give state agencies the ability to reject job applicants based on their tobacco use. Munro announced yesterday that he has spoken with the state Department of Personnel and the Attorney General's Office about his plan. Munro acknowledges the constitutional questions his proposal raises, but stated, "The thought is trying to send a message to young people that this is more than a health issue. This is more than an issue that relates to the cost of a pack of cigarettes. This also could mean you won't get a job."
Source: Hunter George, "Munro Turns Tough On Smoking," SEATTLE TIMES (on-line), January 5, 1999.