At 6 a.m. on Saturday, Michigan became the 38th state to become smoke free; protecting its workers and citizens alike from the dangers of secondhand smoke.

Much time and effort has been devoted to urging local lawmakers to pass legislation to make Michigan a smoke-free state. Now that this day is here, workers will no longer have to be in a dilemma of choosing a paycheck over health.

Michigan legislators have given its citizens the greatest gift of all - the ability to breathe smoke-free air in the workplace.

I applaud their efforts in doing what is right for Michigan workers and residents. I ask everyone to go out and support our local establishments and congratulate them on being smoke free. DeBorah L. Borden, Coordinator Washtenaw County Tobacco Reduction Coalition