Lobbying for the Long Haul
When it comes to long-term lobbying, not too many issues equal tobacco control. There have been many successes in curtailing cigarette marketing to children, restricting smoking in public places and increasing funding for prevention and cessation. However, these victories were achieved with much blood, sweat and patience, coupled with overcoming strenuous tobacco industry opposition. It seems more needs to be done.
The latest focus on tobacco is the ninth annual report charting each state’s progress in using proceeds from the 1998 state tobacco settlement for tobacco prevention and cessation. Produced jointly by the American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Lung Association and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the good news this year is that the states have increased funding by 20 percent, the highest level in 6 years. This increase still means that less than 3 percent of the $24.9 billion the states will collect this year will go for tobacco prevention. Just 6.4 percent of this tobacco money would fund prevention programs in every state at minimum standards set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Today, only 3 states meet that basic level.
Things haven’t changed much over the nine years the program has been in existence. I was there in the early days when states were licking their chops to get their hands on this money that comes from tobacco companies as reimbursement for health care costs related to tobacco use. This money has paid for new roads, budget deficits and many other non-health projects.
And, what is the impact on smoking? Progress in reducing smoking among youth and adults has stalled and tobacco marketing has nearly doubled since the 1988 settlement. And, what does this mean for public interest lobbyists? More work ahead during year 10. Hang in there.
For the full report go to www.tobaccofreekids.org/reports/settlements
