LANSING, MICH. – Today, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer introduced her proposed budget, which increases funding for programs addressing tobacco use in the state.
The following is a statement from Molly Medenblik, government relations director for the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) in Michigan:
"Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Michigan and smoking is responsible for 16,200 deaths per year in our state. Furthermore, Michigan is near the bottom when it comes to funding programs to prevent kids from starting to use tobacco and helping adults quit. That is why the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) applauds Gov. Whitmer for increasing funding for programs that would reduce tobacco use in our state.
“Investing in measures to combat tobacco consumption is needed to counteract the $308.4 million per year that tobacco companies are spending to market their deadly and addictive products in Michigan. As Big Tobacco has been working hard to addict future generations with e-cigarettes and other tobacco products, the need for tobacco prevention program funding has never been greater.
“As lawmakers make their way through the budget, ACS CAN calls on the legislature to keep the additional funding proposed by the Governor."
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About ACS CAN
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 improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. 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 advanced proven tobacco control measures. We’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.