On April 15, 2026, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, and the Truth Initiative sent a letter to Dr. Jay Bhattacharya, in support of efforts to fully restore staff at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The letter uplifts that reinstating capacity at the Office of Smoking and Health (OSH) at CDC is essential to ensuring congressionally appropriated funds are used effectively and that states, Tribal organizations, and territories receive uninterrupted funding, as well as technical assistance, and data-driven guidance. The letter underscores that without a fully staffed OSH, evidence-based programs that prevent youth initiation, help people quit, and reduce tobacco-related disease and costs nationwide are at serious risk.
