Published: January 19, 2012

American Lung Association 'Report Card' On Tobacco Control Gives North Dakota Two 'Thumbs Up' - And Some Advice

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BISMARCK, N.D., Jan. 19, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- North Dakota was praised in the 2012 State of Tobacco Control Report for spending close to the level recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for its state tobacco control program, and for exceeding CDC recommendations for investing in a statewide "quitline" service to help smokers kick the habit. But the state also received an "F" grade for its 44 cents-a-pack cigarette tax, among the lowest in the region. The annual report card from the American Lung Association gave North Dakota an "A" grade for tobacco prevention and control spending; a "C' grade for smokefree air; and a "C" grade for cessation coverage.

A spokesperson for the American Lung Association in North Dakota noted that with a couple of small changes, North Dakota could count on excellent grades in the years to come. "Raising the state cigarette tax is long overdue, and would help reduce the rate of youth smoking," said Kimberlee Schneider. "We are out of step with our neighboring states, and the direction the rest of the nation is heading. Recent polls have shown that the state is ready to do what Bismarck has already one - adopt a comprehensive smokefree law that protects everyone fairly and equally."

A link to the entire State of Tobacco Control Report is available online at www.stateoftobaccocontrol.org.

SOURCE American Lung Association in North Dakota