Oregon Leads U.S. In Funding Anti-Smoking Programs, Report Says

PORTLAND, OR —Oregon dramatically increased how much it spends on anti-smoking programs in the past year. As a result, the state has jumped to number one among states on that issue. It was a big jump from last year when the state was ranked 18th.

That's according to the data compiled in a new report by the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids. The report was released to show states have been dong with the additional funds provided by the 1998 nationwide settlement with tobacco companies.

While the report had praise for Oregon, the Campaign said that the state is currently an outlier.

By spending 93.9 percent of what the CDC recommends the state spend on anti-smoking program, Oregon was alone with Alaska as the only states in the country that spend at least 75 percent of CDC-recommended levels.

"Oregon is a rare beacon of hope among the states in really boosting their funding of the proven tobacco prevention and cassation programs," Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids Matthew Myers said.

YOU CAN READ THE WHOLE REPORT HERE

Myers added that a measure reason for Oregon's success was the decision by voters n November 108 to pas a significant increase in the state's tobacco tax with the understanding that the bulk of the money would go to anti-smoking and other prevention programs.

The state spent $36.9 million last year compared to only $9.4 million the year before.

"Now we’re seeing the state use some of the new revenue to increase program funding," Myers said. "That will help us end the grip Big Tobacco has had on this country for far too long. The key next step is ending the sale of all flavored tobacco products .

"We hope Oregon will set a great example there, as well, for other states to follow."

Oregon Health Authority Public Health Director Rachael Banks said that the state is "excited and proud of this recognition of the state's leadership in funding tobacco prevention at the level recommended by the CDC.

"We are deeply appreciative of Oregon’s collective dedication to improving the health of our communities."

The report made it clear that the state still has work to do.

As of January 21, 2022, Oregon had:

• 449,500 adults who smoke;
• 8,900 high school students who smoke; and
• 21.4 of hgh school students who use e-cigarettes.

The report also concluded that 5,500 Oregonians die each year from tobacco-related illness and that $1.54 billion is spent each year on health care costs directly related to smoking.