Tobacco Control Law Advocacy
Save lives, reduce spending, and create a healthier Maryland — We must protect Local Tobacco Control powers.
Join the efforts of our Health, Political Action, Environmental & Climate Justice and Public Safety commitees in its advocacy.
Learn How by Attending a Training. Register Today!
Join the efforts of our Health, Political Action, Environmental & Climate Justice and Public Safety commitees in its advocacy.
Learn How by Attending a Training. Register Today!
Register Today! |
From the police killings of unarmed Black people to the COVID-19 pandemic’s devastating impact on Black, Hispanic and low-income communities, the year 2020 has exposed systemic inequities that jeopardize the health of children and families nationwide.
The NAACP Maryland State Conference, The American Heart Association, and LOCAL Maryland invite you to learn how racial inequity and health disparities are reinforced by industry-backed laws that limit the rights of communities to protect the health of their residents. As a result of a 2013 ruling, local governments in Maryland are prohibited from passing new laws related to tobacco sales and distribution and are hesitant to enforce existing tobacco ordinances for fear of further lawsuits from the tobacco industry. Without the authority to enact and enforce tobacco control laws, local governments cannot respond to what causes people to use tobacco in their communities — stifling progress in reducing use, especially among young people. Authority over tobacco control policy in Maryland does not have to reside all with the state or all with local government. Each level of government brings its strengths to the table. If combined through partnership, they can be a powerful vehicle to accomplish what could not be done separately, for the betterment of all Marylanders. But first, the power of local governments to pass new tobacco control laws must be restored. |