A recent report by the American Lung Association has called on West Virginia lawmakers to increase funding for tobacco prevention and cessation programs. The report emphasizes aligning with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and protecting local authority over smokefree laws. It also suggests implementing a significant increase in tobacco taxes, ensuring equal tax rates across all tobacco products, including e-cigarettes.
The 2025 "State of Tobacco Control" report assesses state and federal policies aimed at eliminating tobacco use. It offers recommendations for effective tobacco control laws and policies that can save lives.
West Virginia received grades in five areas known to prevent and reduce tobacco use. This year's report also highlights the aggressive efforts of the tobacco industry to attract a new generation of users, undermining public policies designed to curb tobacco consumption.
Elizabeth Hensil, Director of Advocacy at the American Lung Association in West Virginia, stated: “Here in West Virginia, we continue to have the highest adult smoking rate in the nation, with 32.9% of adults (281,200) smoking, and a high school tobacco use rate of 27%. We are also the second-highest state for new lung cancer cases.” She further noted that despite these statistics, "tobacco industry lobbyists are actively working at the local level to weaken tobacco control policies," while promoting youth-targeted products like e-cigarettes with kid-friendly flavors.
Hensil urged policymakers in West Virginia to focus on increasing funding for CDC-aligned prevention programs and maintaining local smokefree laws. She also advocated for enacting a $1.50 per pack increase in cigarette taxes and equalizing taxes across all tobacco products.
Despite receiving $194.9 million from various sources related to tobacco settlement payments and taxes, West Virginia funds its control efforts at only 6.1% of the CDC's recommended level. The Lung Association is urging Governor Patrick Morrisey and state legislators to boost funding for these crucial programs.
On a federal level, the "State of Tobacco Control" report encourages Congress to provide more resources to the FDA so they can effectively regulate illegal e-cigarettes introduced by the industry.
The report’s state grades reflect actions taken by elected officials rather than those involved directly with state programs or advocacy groups.
For further details about this year's grades or to sign a petition supporting these initiatives, visit Lung.org/sotc.
