SD Gets "F" In Tobacco Prevention

by KDLT News
January 16, 2013 10:31 AM


South Dakota’s grades in the annual American Lung Association’s annual State of Tobacco Control Report remain unchanged from last year: an “F” in tobacco prevention and control program funding; a “B” grade for smoke-free air; a “C” grade for the state’s cigarette tax; and an “D” grade for cessation, which revaluates services and products offered to state employees and Medicaid recipients to help them quit smoking, as well as state funding of “Quit Line” services.

“While the year started with some rumored challenges to the strong smoke-free air law South Dakota voters approved two years ago, lawmakers wisely respected the will of the people and the statewide law remains intact, popular and effective,” said Penny Gottier Fena, executive director of the American Lung Association in South Dakota. “This year, we and our partners will make the case for increasing South Dakota’s tobacco prevention and control program funding to levels recommended by the Centers for Disease Control.”