MARQUETTE COUNTY -- More than a year after Michigan enacted the smoke-free law, health officials say they have recorded a significant change.
The Marquette County Health Department conducted air quality tests at six Marquette restaurants before and after the ban was enacted. Volunteers conducted the tests at the locations during their peak hours on the weekends.
The restaurants did not know these tests were being conducted, and the results were sent into an independent building for analysis. They found a significant reduction in air pollutants, something that can greatly impact the health of not only patrons, but more significantly, those who work in those locations.
"It's something that we wanted to test to make sure we knew scientifically, that yes, the air quality is better," said Sarah Derwin of the MCHD.
The study was funded by the Michigan Department of Community Health.
The department says compliance for the smoking ban has been high in Marquette County.
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