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Suncoast Pasco News

County To Study Hiring Only Nonsmokers

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By Carl  Orth | The Suncoast News

Published: May 27, 2008

NEW PORT RICHEY The Pasco County Commission today briefly discussed the possibility of hiring only nonsmokers.

"The ultimate goal is to have the healthiest work force that we can," Commissioner Michael Cox said. An advisory committee on insurance has raised the idea of a ban on hiring smokers for county government jobs.

This step toward a smoke-free Pasco government work force might drive down insurance premiums by reducing the amount of smoking-related medical care county employees would require, Cox said.
Commissioners asked County Administrator John Gallagher to research the concept.

In the meantime, Commissioner Pat Mulieri said she hopes the county's insurance provider will cover some quit-smoking programs.

Aetna, which is scheduled to become the county's health insurance provider later this year, will provide some $20,000 to the county for wellness programs, Cox reported.

Carl Orth can be reached at corth@suncoastnews.com or 727-815-1068.

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