BRUNSWICK – Today, the Brunswick Council voted unanimously to end the sale all flavored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and menthol flavored products. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) applauds Town Council members for prioritizing the health of children and historically marginalized communities over Big Tobacco’s interests and bottom line.
The following is a statement from ACS CAN Maine Director of Government Relations and Brunswick Resident Hilary Schneider:
“Tonight, the town of Brunswick proved its commitment to protecting kids from Big Tobacco’s continued targeting by voting to end the sale of all flavored tobacco products in the town, without exemptions. This is sound public health policy that will pay out in dividends as fewer youth become addicted to these deadly products.
“Menthol, mint and other candy- and fruit-flavored tobacco products are a key part of the tobacco industry’s strategy to entice our youth into a potential lifetime of addiction. Research shows that flavors drive the unprecedented increase in youth tobacco uptake, with 81% of kids who have ever tried tobacco starting with a flavored product.
“Our town council members should be applauded for their vote to prioritize public health and protect our kids and community members from all flavored products, without exemptions.”
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About ACS CAN at 20
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that saves lives. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and made workplaces, including restaurants and bars, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.