Thanks to the dedication, passion, and hard work of You’re the Cure volunteers like you, 2018 was another successful year of public policy accomplishments for heart health in Greater Washington.
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You’re the Cure advocates were active in Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia to support, defend, and help pass legislation that will continue to make our region a national leader in heart healthy policies and healthy living.
Washington, DC:
- Raised its cigarette tax by $2, to $4.50/pack, the nation’s highest state tax.
- Increased the age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21 and dedicated $1.9 million to cessation programs.
- Restricted the sale of substandard “short-term” health insurance which lacks essential benefits and can discriminate against those with pre-existing conditions like heart disease and stroke.
- Proposed legislation to make restaurant kids’ meals healthier by removing sugary drinks.
- Passed shared use legislation, which makes school recreation facilities more accessible to all residents.
- You’re the Cure advocates defended a threat to repeal DC’s newborn critical congenital heart disease screening law.
- Increased funding to help low-income residents afford healthy produce at farmers’ markets.
Montgomery County:
- Approved the Master Bike Plan to create a comprehensive bike network to increase physical activity and accessibility throughout the county.
- Proposed legislation to restrict smoking in outdoor sections of restaurants.
Prince George’s County:
- You’re the Cure advocates are actively fighting a proposal that would exempt the MGM casino from the state’s smoke-free law by allowing a cigar bar.
Northern Virginia:
- Approved and invested in a comprehensive bike plan to improve access and active transportation throughout the region.
None of these heart health policies would be possible without the incredible enthusiasm and hard work of our Greater Washington You’re the Cure advocates. Because of you, millions of Greater Washington residents live in heart healthy communities. We look forward to working with all of you in 2019 to continue our mission to be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.
[Pictured above: You’re the Cure advocate Daniela Leonhardt tells her story and accepts a ceremonial resolution at the DC Council’s Wear Red Day on February 6, 2018.]
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