Vermont Anti-Smoking Policy Draws Praise

Author: Megan O'Keefe

In a report released on Jan. 7, the American Lung Association praised Vermont policy-makers for discouraging smoking, especially in youth.
The report cited stringent laws against public smoking, excellent funding for tobacco control, programs designed to deter youth smoking and high taxes on tobacco products as areas in which Vermont has excelled. "We are very proud of Vermont," said Robert C. Uerz, president and chief executive officer of the American Lung Association of Vermont. Grading states for their efforts against smoking, the American Lung Association awarded Vermont high marks in all categories.
Vermont was one of seven states to get an 'A' for legislation against youth smoking. Vermont bans minors from smoking and has enacted a number of measures to enforce this law. Throughout the state, identification is required when purchasing tobacco products and cigarette machines have been banned in order to limit the availability of cigarettes to underage youth. Additionally, a statewide enforcement agency has been established to conduct store inspections and to assure retailer compliance with state law.
Bidis, sweet Indian cigarettes popular among teenagers, have also been banned in Vermont.
Vermont received slightly lower marks in other areas of smoking regulation. The state got a 'B' for its restrictions on smoking in public places. Smoking is prohibited in government workplaces, childcare facilities, restaurants, retail stores and recreation and cultural facilities.
While smoking is also prohibited in private workplaces and schools, it is not banned from college facilities. Though smoking is currently permitted inside student rooms in Middlebury College dorms, a proposal presented to the SGA has moved to prohibit smoking entirely in all campus buildings.
Vermont also got a 'B' for its tobacco control appropriations and for its cigarette tax. Last year the state Legislature voted to raise the cigarette tax from 44 to 93 cents per pack. In accordance with this measure, the tax will increase again in July 2003 by 26 cents to $1.19 a pack.
Finally, Vermont was awarded a 'B' for its use of funds from a 1998 settlement with tobacco companies.
The American Lung Association credited Vermont with spending the money on tobacco control programs instead of diverting funds towards other budget needs.