Governor Phil Scott is preparing to deliver his State of the State Message today. Bill Sherman, managing director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network ACS CAN) released the following statement in advance of the governor’s message:
“Vermont has a history as a leader in public health, but there is still much work to be done. We look forward to working with Governor Scott and the state legislature to advance policies that reduce the pain and suffering of cancer.
“We expect Vermont elected officials will put the health of our citizens first, and stand up to big tobacco. We are calling for $4 million in state funding for evidence-based tobacco control programs that help people quit smoking and save lives and healthcare costs. Vermont currently allocates $3.4 million to this successful program.
“Furthermore, we urge elected officials to raise the sale age of tobacco to 21, as five other states and hundreds of localities across the nation have already done. This promising approach will save lives by helping prevent young people from becoming addicted to tobacco.
“We are looking forward to hearing Governor Scott’s message and call on him to address these crucial public health issues.”