FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Michelle Zimmerman
American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
Phone: 740.525.9577 (cell)
E-mail: [email protected]
Ohio Health Advocacy Organizations React to Governor’s Budget
Columbus, Ohio – January 30, 2017 – This statement can be attributed to five of the leading health advocacy organizations: American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids and the March of Dimes.
“As organizations dedicated to saving lives, we’re pleased to see the governor taking steps to address the health impact of tobacco in his budget.
“However, research shows the proposed tax increase of 65 cents is too low to have any real public health impact. We strongly support the recommendation offered by the Infant Mortality Commission during the spring of 2016 to increase the cigarette tax by $1.00 per pack. Making tobacco significantly more expensive is proven to reduce use and thereby reduce the number of tobacco-related deaths. There is no doubt that tax increases on all tobacco products would generate additional revenue, but more importantly, they will discourage tobacco use, especially among our youth.
“We commend the governor for proposing an increase to the other tobacco products tax to achieve equality with the tax on cigarettes and for his continued investments in tobacco prevention and cessation programs. These two proposals are proven ways of reducing tobacco use. We strongly support funding these important programs.
“The governor’s proposed tobacco price increases are a step in the right direction, but Ohio can do better. We will continue working with the governor and legislators to get the most out of our efforts to reduce the state’s burden of tobacco and reduce the number of tobacco-related diagnoses and deaths in Ohio.”
###