A news release from the health agency says the events are designed to educate the public about the benefits of smoke-free environments.

State Health Officer Dr. Mary Currier says there's no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. She says 550 nonsmokers die each year from exposure to secondhand smoke.

The luncheons will be held Oct. 26 in Cleveland; Oct. 27 in Hattiesburg; Oct. 28 in Gulfport; Nov. 3 in Natchez; Nov. 4 in Starkville; Nov. 10 in Tupelo and Nov. 16 in Hernando.

The state Department of Health is expected to ask lawmakers to consider smoke-free legislation next session.