HONOLULU—On the heels of World No Tobacco Day, leading public health organizations urge Governor Ige to veto House Bill 1296 that would repeal the state’s successful tobacco control trust fund and eliminate funding for tobacco prevention and cessation efforts.
Following is a statement from the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN), the American Heart Association and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.
"Repealing Hawaii’s successful tobacco control trust fund is a dangerous move that will reverse decades of progress we have made in fighting tobacco in the state. The lives of Hawaii’s keiki are worth much more than zero, which is what the state will dedicate to protect them from the harms of tobacco use in the future if this bill becomes law.
"Hawaii already has some of the highest youth e-cigarette use in the nation, and without this tobacco prevention and cessation funding, we will be left with nothing to counter the tobacco industry’s aggressive and predatory marketing that continues to hook future generations and lead to significant disparities in tobacco use.
"Now more than ever, we should be doing everything we can to protect people’s health. Governor Ige can define his legacy as a health care champion and a hero for our children by vetoing this harmful legislation. It’s time to put the health of Hawaii’s residents over Big Tobacco’s profits."
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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, smoke-free. As we mark our 20th anniversary, we’re more determined than ever to stand together with our volunteers and save more lives from cancer. Join the fight by visiting www.fightcancer.org.
About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Instagram or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. Or call our Hawaii Division office at 377-6630, go to our local web site at www.heart.org/hawaii, and follow our Hawaii social media sites on Facebook and Instagram.
About the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids
The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids is the leading advocacy organization working to reduce tobacco use and its deadly consequences in the United States and around the world. Through strategic communications and policy advocacy campaigns, we promote the adoption of proven solutions that are most effective at reducing tobacco use and save the most lives.