State Sen. Rosalyn Baker of Maui yesterday received the Exemplary State Elected Official Comprehensive Cancer Control Award at the 2007 Hawaii Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition meeting.

The meeting was held at the Japanese Cultural Center.

Baker's work in cancer control includes championing an increase in the state's cigarette tax in 2006 and steering legislation that resulted in Hawai'i becoming a more smoke-free state.

Baker, a 31-year cancer survivor and healthcare advocate, has served as vice chairwoman of the Hawaii Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition for the past two years.

Hawai'i has for years banned smoking in workplaces, and on Nov. 16 extended the ban to prohibit smoking in bars, restaurants and other places that serve liquor and within 20 feet of the entrances and windows.

The law includes a $100 fine for a first offense for a business and a $50 fine for smokers who violate the law.

Baker represents state Senate District 5, which encompasses South and West Maui.