Virginia receives failing grade on State of Tobacco Control report (Source: KSLA News 12) By Caitlin Piemme | January 27, 2021 at 6:49 PM EST - Updated January 27 at 9:51 PM
HARRISONBURG, Va. (WHSV) The State of Tobacco Control report shows Virginia received a failing grade in all categories, including tobacco prevention and control program funding, tobacco taxes, smoke-free air, access to cessation services and flavored tobacco products.
The report looks at the state’s efforts to reduce tobacco use and address the youth vaping epidemic.
Director of Advocacy from the American Lung Association Aleks Casper says this grade is not uncommon for the state, and they are trying to help the situation by pushing for a bill to be passed to raise the tax on tobacco. She says raising it to more than a dollar is necessary for it to be a public health benefit.