The American Lung Association gave New York failing grades for efforts to reduce tobacco use, and is suggesting the state step up prevention activities.
The 24th State of Tobacco Control Report listed a grade of “F” for New York's tobacco prevention programs and a “D” for efforts toward ending the sale of flavored tobacco products.
On the plus side, New York gets an “A” for strength of smokefree workplace laws and “B” grades for the level of tobacco taxes, plus coverage and access to services to quit tobacco.
The Lung Association says New York needs to use more of its tobacco taxes and settlement funds on prevention, as federal health efforts fall short.
“It is devastating to see the federal government largely abandon its tobacco control efforts. Walking away from the incredible progress the nation has made on reducing tobacco use over the past 50 years is unacceptable,” said Michael Seilback, assistant vice president of nationwide advocacy and state public policy at the American Lung Association in New York.
New York took in more than $1.5 Billion annually in tobacco taxes and funds from settlements with tobacco companies. the Lung Association reported that prevention activities were funded at 20% of the level recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.
“State of Tobacco Control” report grades for New York:
(Source: Lung.org)
- Funding for State Tobacco Prevention Programs – Grade F
- Strength of Smokefree Workplace Laws – Grade A
- Level of State Tobacco Taxes – Grade B
- Coverage and Access to Services to Quit Tobacco – Grade B
- Ending the Sale of All Flavored Tobacco Products – Grade D
