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The fourth annual American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control 2005 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.  Texas scored grades of "F" in cigarette excise tax, "F" in tobacco prevention and control spending, and an "F" in smokefree air.  One bright spot, Texas earned an "A" grade for its youth access to tobacco.

This report is a wake-up call to the legislature and our governor about the true status of tobacco control in Texas.  Our cigarette tax is extremely low and the prevalence of youth smoking too high.  We rank 39th out of 50 states.  Studies show that when the price of cigarettes goes up, youth smoking rates go down.  In fact, for every 10 percent increase in price, youth smoking rates will drop by about 7 percent.

Revenues from cigarette excise taxes can fund tobacco prevention and education programs and other budget priorities.  States that fund and implement strong comprehensive tobacco control programs have achieved significant reduction in tobacco use among both adults and youth.  A reduction in tobacco use saves thousands of lives and produces enormous declines in state health care costs and other tobacco-related expenditures.

Please take a moment to send the attached letter to your state Senator, Representative and Governor for a call to action on cigarette excise taxes in Texas.