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Michelle Zimmerman
Associate Director, Regional Media Advocacy
Kentucky’s Health Is on the Line: Senate Must Strengthen Tobacco Prevention Efforts
Kentucky Can and Must Do Better When It Comes to Reducing Tobacco Use
February 26, 2026
FRANKFORT, KY. – The Kentucky House passed its version of the budget, which cuts funding for tobacco prevention and programs that help those already addicted quit.
The following is a Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Government Relations Director Doug Hogan:
“Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death and disease in Kentucky, including 37.2% of cancer deaths, and Kentucky has the second-highest smoking-attributable cancer death rate in the country. The need for robust investments in tobacco prevention and cessation programs in the Commonwealth has never been greater.
“The House budget version cuts funding for programs that prevent tobacco use and help those already addicted quit.
“We urge the Senate to make tobacco prevention and cessation a priority in their budget bill with a $4 million annual investment. The additional funding will allow programming and resources to help additional Kentuckians each year be successful in their effort to quit using addictive tobacco products and protect kids from starting to use tobacco.
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