Pennsylvania’s efforts to control tobacco use are falling short, and the latest report card from the American Lung Association reflects this stark reality. The state received three Fs and two Ds for its initiatives aimed at reducing tobacco use in 2025.
According to the report, Pennsylvania lacks solid funding for prevention programs and needs to raise tobacco taxes significantly. The state ranks low in enforcing smoke-free workplace laws and has limited resources available to help people quit. The Lung Association found that funding is less than 15% of what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends.
“It’s heartbreaking to see the federal government pull back on tobacco control. We’ve made so much progress over the last 50 years, and we can’t go backward,” said Elizabeth Hensil, advocacy director at the Lung Association’s Pennsylvania chapter.
More alarming is that over 22,000 Pennsylvanians die each year from tobacco-related diseases, a statistic that underscores the urgent need for change. The Lung Association is advocating for stricter laws, including a complete ban on smoking and vaping in bars and casinos. State Rep. Dan Frankel is backing a bill aimed at closing loopholes in the Clean Indoor Air Act. This bill has passed committee stages but has yet to face a full House vote.
Public opinion echoes this concern. Many residents are increasingly alarmed by the rise of e-cigarettes and flavored tobacco products. A recent survey indicated that 78% of Pennsylvanians support higher taxes on tobacco to fund cessation programs.
In a time when health is at the forefront of many discussions, it’s vital for Pennsylvania to take action. By investing in tobacco control and supporting legislation to protect its citizens, the state can help to prevent needless suffering and save lives.
For more details on funding levels and tobacco control recommendations, you can refer to the CDC’s guidelines.
