ACS Eastern CEO Don Distasio Reacts to NYS Budget

NEWS
from the American Cancer Society
For media inquiries, contact:
Angela Pause Smith – 518.454.4039 (office) or 518.339-6339 (cell)
[email protected]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: December 16, 2008

CANCER PREVENTION MEASURES IN BUDGET PROPOSAL

Statement from Donald Distasio, CEO, American Cancer Society of NY & NJ, regarding Governor Paterson’s proposed 2009-2010 state budget.

“Fighting cancer continues no matter what the economic climate. By maintaining cancer screenings, helping pregnant women quit smoking, providing health coverage to more uninsured, and tackling obesity Governor Paterson is investing in the health of New Yorkers.

While we are disappointed that the Governor proposed cutting the state’s tobacco control program – meaning fewer kids will get the anti-smoking message and fewer adults will get help quitting – we are encouraged by the proposal to increase the tax on cigars and by the Governor signing the bill to collect taxes on cigarettes sold on Indian reservations.”

Cancer prevention investments included in Governor’s proposed budget:

• Appropriating $22.2 million for cancer screenings for the uninsured.
• Funding in Medicaid for smoking cessation counseling for pregnant women, postpartum women and youth to age 19. One-on-one counseling has been shown to improve quit rates.
• Expanding Family Health Plus to 200% of the poverty level to cover more uninsured New Yorkers.
• Easing administrative barriers to registration for public health insurance programs leading more eligible New Yorkers to participate.
• Tax on non-diet sodas to reduce obesity rates. Obesity is a major risk factor for cancer.
• Increase the tax on cigars to 50 cents per cigar. Higher costs discourage smoking.

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The American Cancer Society is dedicated to eliminating cancer as a major health problem by saving lives, diminishing suffering and preventing cancer through research, education, advocacy and service. The American Cancer Society Eastern Division has 46 community-based offices, involving thousands of volunteers throughout NY and NJ. For 24-hour cancer information, call toll free 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit https://www.cancer.org/about-us/local/new-york/new-york-related-information.html