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The third annual American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control: 2004 report has been released.  This national report card analyzes state tobacco control laws in four key areas—smoke-free air, tobacco program funding, cigarette excise taxes, and youth access to tobacco.  Arizona once again scored an "F" in smoke-free air.  We dropped from a "B" for cigarette excise tax to a "C", and Arizona received a "C" in youth access to tobacco. The only bright spot was in tobacco prevention and control spending where the state earned a "B".

This report should be a wake-up call to our citizens, local elected officials, the legislature, and our governor about the status of tobacco control in Arizona. Our local smoke-free air laws are weak and we must pass a statewide comprehensive law that does not compromise our health.  In 2004, the Arizona legislature had an opportunity to pass such a comprehensive bill, but did not even give the proposed bill a hearing. 

We have now launched our Smoke-Free Arizona campaign.  On July 21, 2004,the American Lung Association, in cooperation with the American Cancer Society and American Heart Association, launched an exploratory campaign for a statewide voter initiative in Arizona to prohibit smoking in all enclosed public places and workplaces.  Arizona voters would have an opportunity to vote on this initiative in November 2006.

We are seeking Arizona citizens who would like to help a historical campaign that would ensure all Arizonans are free from the dangers of secondhand smoke.  Please take a moment to visit our website at www.smokefreearizona.org to learn more about this initiative and how you can support the campaign.