OLYMPIA, WASH. – Both chambers of the legislature have released their respective budget proposals for the 2023-24 biennium. In response, Matt Helder, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) Washington Government Relations Director, released the following statement:
“These proposals mark an important step in keeping Washington as a leader in cancer research but unfortunately leave much to be done to curb tobacco and e-cigarette use in Washington.”
Cancer Research
“ACS CAN applauds the legislature’s proposal to fund the Andy Hill Cancer Research Endowment with $20 million over the next biennium. The Andy Hill CARE is a key tool in the fight against cancer and allows for cutting edge research and development to continue happening right here in Washington.”
“The legislature has demonstrated its commitment to this program over the past several years, and the investment has been shown to bring in tens of millions of additional non-state dollars for research in return. It encouraging to see continued commitment to end cancer as we know it.”
Tobacco Use Prevention
“While we are pleased with the legislature’s commitment to investing in and expanding cutting edge research, we urge lawmakers to not miss yet another opportunity to make an impact on tobacco prevention and cessation. By falling well short of the CDC’s recommended funding levels for an effective tobacco control program, Washington is in danger of ceding yet more ground to Big Tobacco as they target youth and vulnerable populations around our state. We appreciate the funding level from the previous biennium being carried over as one time funding, but more remains to be done in restoring funding for these critical programs that were cut during the Great Recession."
“We encourage the budget writers to consider the best available science and the impact of the inaction and take a meaningful step by appropriating $30 million in 2023-2024 towards prevention and cessation.”