You’re the Cure advocates converged on the DC Council on December 6 for AHA’s annual Lobby Day, urging Councilmembers to support increasing the District’s cigarette tax and other tobacco control policies in the nation’s capital.
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Over 30 advocates representing the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, American Lung Association, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, and March of Dimes met with all 13 Council offices. They shared personal stories of how smoking has impacted their lives, and encouraged Councilmembers to support bill B22-460, which would: increase the District’s cigarette tax by $2/pack, invest in cessation programs to help people quit, and implement DC’s Tobacco 21 law.
You’re the Cure advocate Deb Wells shared her personal reason for the need to support the cigarette tax: “Cigarettes took away both my parents, my grandfather, and a brother. Smoking has affected far too many families. And the data shows, there is no better way to prevent people from smoking or to help them quit than by raising the tax and increasing the price.” Stories like this helped to emphasize the pressing need for passage of the bill, for the health of all those in the District.
In addition to the dozens of advocates at the Wilson Building, many more took action by calling and emailing Councilmembers through AHA’s virtual lobby day, and by supporting the campaign on social media using the hashtag #RaiseIt4HealthDC.
It isn’t too late to join the cause!
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