BANGOR – This evening, the city of Bangor will once again vote on a bill that would end the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and menthol flavored products. The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) urges City Councilors to prioritize 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 Hilary Schneider:
“Youth tobacco use is surging here in Maine. What is driving the massive surge in tobacco use among youth? Flavored tobacco. Fruit and candy flavored products like cotton candy, fruit punch, menthol and mint are driving Big Tobacco’s comeback attempt. Only ten months ago, the Bangor City Council rightfully acted to address this epidemic by ending the sale of flavored tobacco products in the city, and it’s time for them to do it again.
“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. The Bangor City council got it right once, and it’s once again time for them to get it right by voting to end the sale of these harmful and addictive products.
“Bangor has to opportunity to recommit to its initial vote to end the sale of flavored tobacco products and protect our kids, and public health on the whole. I urge City Councilors to pass this ordinance ending the sale of all flavored tobacco 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,