Statement from American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network Government Relations Director Leo Almeida
COLUMBUS, OHIO – “The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) condemns the House for not standing up for the health of Ohioans and putting our children at greater risk of becoming Big Tobacco’s next customers. Instead of offering solutions to address the health of our residents, lawmakers have now limited what local governments can do to prevent people from starting to use tobacco and help people quit.
“Tonight, the Ohio House voted to override Gov. DeWine's veto of HB 33. HB 33 will restrict communities’ authority to pass local laws regulating the sale of tobacco products. Local control over matters designed to protect the public’s health, including tobacco control laws, has numerous benefits that will be lost if that local power is taken away.
“ACS CAN calls on the Senate to stand up for Ohio and not vote to override Gov. DeWine’s veto. Policymaking at the local level allows innovation and creative problem solving that builds on local strengths and addresses local needs. Restricting the freedom of local leaders to pass tobacco control laws that go beyond state law only benefits Big Tobacco.”
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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