A recent report by the American Lung Association has called on Maryland lawmakers to prioritize funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs. The 2025 "State of Tobacco Control" report evaluates both state and federal policies aimed at reducing tobacco use, recommending effective laws and policies to save lives.
The report grades states and the District of Columbia in five key areas known to prevent and reduce tobacco use. Aleks Casper, Director of Advocacy for Maryland, DC, DE, VA at the American Lung Association in Maryland, stated: "In addition to grading Maryland’s tobacco control policies, this year’s ‘State of Tobacco Control’ report examines the tobacco industry’s increasingly aggressive actions to addict a new generation to tobacco and hinder proven public policies to prevent and reduce tobacco use."
Casper further noted that the industry is introducing products appealing to youth, such as e-cigarettes resembling smartphones and flavored nicotine pouches marketed by social media influencers. She emphasized: “In 2025, policymakers in Maryland must focus on defending and preserving the much-needed funding for tobacco prevention and cessation and protecting Maryland’s Clean Indoor Air Act from exemptions.”
Maryland receives $546.1 million from tobacco settlement payments, taxes, and other sources but only funds its control efforts at 47.9% of the CDC's recommended level. The Lung Association urges Governor Wes Moore and legislators to maintain funding for these programs.
On a federal level, the report calls on Congress to increase FDA funding to enforce against illegal e-cigarettes introduced by the industry. For more information or to sign a petition related to this year's grades, visit Lung.org/sotc.
The state grades reflect elected officials' actions rather than those of state programs or advocates.
