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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 - smokefree air, tobacco program funding, cigarette excise taxes and youth access to tobacco.  Illinois scored grades of "F" in smokefree air, "F" in tobacco prevention and control spending, and "F" in youth access to tobacco.  In a bright spot, Illinois earned a "C" grade for its cigarette excise tax rate.

This report should be a wake-up call to the legislature and Governor Blagojevich about the status of tobacco control in Illinois.  The Illinois Clean Indoor Air Law is very weak, and prevents local communities from passing stronger ordinances to protect the health of their residents.  Approximately 53,000 non-smoking Americans die from secondhand smoke each year.  No one in Illinois should have to breathe toxic fumes when visiting or working in a public establishment.  The time is now to pass a smokefree law that will save lives.