Tobacco control policies are heating up at the DC Council, with two bills set for hearings in early July. You’re the Cure advocates can influence policy that will further strengthen the District’s smoke-free environment.
The Prohibition Against Selling Tobacco Products to Individuals Under 21 Act would raise the minimum age to purchase tobacco products from 18 to 21 in the District. The bill would make it more difficult for youth to get their hands on tobacco products and stop them from becoming lifelong users. DC would join other states and major cities that have raised the purchase age, including Hawaii, California, New York City, Boston, and Chicago.
The second bill, the Sporting Events Smoking and Smokeless Tobacco Restriction Act would eliminate smokeless tobacco use from all sports venues in the District. Youth shouldn’t have to see their favorite professional athletes on the field using tobacco This would be an important policy to show kids that tobacco and healthy lifestyles don’t mix. New York City, Chicago, Boston, San Francisco, and Los Angeles already have similar restrictions in place.
You’re the Cure advocate Gail Mates says: “In light of the impact, it’s mind-boggling to think that smoking is the most preventable risk factor for heart disease and lung cancer. No stone should be left unturned to fix this issue!”
A hearing for both of these bills will occur on July 7th at the DC Council. Make your voice heard, and come testify to tell Councilmembers that you support strengthening laws to keep tobacco away from kids!
To sign up to testify or for more information, go to: http://www.dcregs.dc.gov/Gateway/NoticeHome.aspx?noticeid=6084536
Can’t come to the hearing? Support the effort with the click of a button at the links below:
- DC residents can support a higher tobacco purchasing age here.
- DC residents can support getting tobacco out of sports venues here.
<Thanks to You’re the Cure intern Spencer Davis for help developing this blog post>
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