Florida County Says No to Hiring Smokers, Citing Costs

Florida County Says No to Hiring Smokers, Citing Costs
May 20, 2008

News Summary

The Sarasota County, Fla., government will not hire anyone who is a current smoker, pointing to federal data showing that smokers cost employers $3,400 annually in lost productivity and medical expenses, the Sarasota Herald Tribune reported May 20.

The ban on hiring smokers is part of a strategy to "produce a healthier work force and manage our long-term health costs," said Sarasota County Administrator Jim Ley.

A 1996 Florida Supreme Court ruling gave employers the right to exclude smokers from employment, but Sarasota County is believed to be the first county in southwest Florida to do so. However, the city of Atlantic Beach, as well as the sheriff's offices in Hernando, Hillsborough and Pasco Counties, also refuse to hire smokers.

New employees of Sarasota County will be required to take a nicotine drug test and sign a pledge that they have not smoked in the previous year. Current employees won't be affected, however.

"We could potentially lose some very valuable employees but all things being equal it's probably a good thing," said Sarasota County Commissioner Nora Patterson.

COMMENTS ON THIS ARTICLE:

Posted by Shattah206 on 27 May 08 05:55 PM EDT

Hey TracyK, conservatives do want less government. It's the libs who want to nanny everyone from cradle to grave. The more liberal the populace, the more rules liek this you'll find. I don't smoke; I quit years ago and I hate the smell. Costs/premiums should be adjusted just like in life insurance. If it's still legal to obtain, they are going too far in making employment decisions based on use.

Posted by Joan M. on 21 May 08 12:36 PM EDT

I think this is a positive step forward. The health consequences of smoking are huge and the less acceptable we make smoking the less people will start smoking and many more will quit.

Posted by Marcel G on 21 May 08 12:34 PM EDT

Talking about the wrong end of the stick. I am appalled at this misguided attempt to save money. Addiction is a disease and people ought to be offered assistance in quitting, not punishment and discrimination. Besides, nicotine is sold legally, the government collects takes, subsidizes growers...what's missing in this pictur?. What's next? If y o drink a glass of wine a day or if your BMI is above 28 we won't hire you?

Posted by Debbie M on 21 May 08 11:37 AM EDT

This is too instrusive, just charge the smokers higher medical premiums

Posted by Tracy K on 21 May 08 09:24 AM EDT

I understand the need for cost effectiveness concerning health and productivity, but this seems highly unconstitutional! What ever happened to the political sales pitch "less government?" It is becoming more obvious that the conservative agenda is to stick its nose into every part of our freedom.

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