PA Failing In Tobacco Control Efforts: American Lung Association

PENNSYLVANIA — Pennsylvania earned failing grades in four of five categories in the American Lung Association's 20th annual "State of Tobacco" report. The analysis, released Wednesday, evaluates state and federal actions to eliminate tobacco use - the nation's leading cause of preventable death.

The study indicated tobacco control efforts have improved nationwide over the past two decades, with smoke-free laws passed in more states, tobacco tax hikes and more access for people to help them quit smoking through Medicaid programs.

But the study revealed that Pennsylvania is lagging in passing policies to reduce and prevent tobacco use, including e-cigarettes. Here's how the state was graded:

Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Funding: F

In fiscal year 2022, Pennsylvania's total funding for tobacco control programs is $18.4 million. That's just 13 percent of the $140 million the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention's recommended state spending on such programs.

Tobacco Taxes: F

The state tax per 20-cigarette pack is $2.60, but taxes are minimal when it comes to cigars, smokeless tobacco and e-cigarettes.

Access to Cessation Services: F

Only some counseling services are available under the state Medicaid program. State employee health plans don't cover many medications and counseling services, and some barriers exist to access care.

Flavored Tobacco Products: F

No state laws or regulations exist for flavored tobacco products.

Smoke-Free Air: D

Smoking is not prohibited entirely for bars, restaurants and casino-gaming establishments. E-cigarettes are not prohibited.

The lung association recommends Pennsylvania take the following actions:

• Allocate level state funding to comprehensive tobacco prevention and control programs.

• Close the loopholes in Pennsylvania's Clean Indoor Air Act and make all public places and workplaces smoke-free.

• Increase tobacco taxes and equalize rates across all tobacco products.

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