Senate bill seeks to close tobacco tax loophole
U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) is set to introduce legislation today to close loopholes that allow Big Tobacco to avoid federal excise tax for sales of loose tobacco often used in pipes and roll-your-own cigarettes.
New rules implementing ACA emphasize access, prevention
In a major move forward on implementation of the Affordable Care Act, the administration released several proposed rules on Tuesday offering more guidance on essential health benefits, insurance reform and workplace wellness plans.
AJPH study: One in four US adults uses tobacco
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that one in four U.S. adults used tobacco in 2009-2010, according to a new study published in the November 2012 issue of the American Journal of Public Health.
CBO report: Raising cigarette tax would lower teen smoking rates, federal deficit
A report released last week by the Congressional Budget Office suggests a 50-cent tobacco tax increase would improve the population’s health by decreasing the prevalence of smoking, particularly among teens, while lowering the deficit.
Hard-hitting public health ad campaigns sparking awareness: New tactics gaining results, controversy
With annual advertising costs in the tens of billions, campaigns waged by the tobacco and fast food industries are contributing to the nation’s health problems. Now, tapping into Madison Avenue’s best strategies, public health programs are striking back with innovative ads of their own.
Behind the scenes in the racketeering case against the tobacco industry
Sharon Eubanks, the attorney who took on the tobacco industry and won, talks about the case, attacks from the industry and how to prevent history from repeating itself in a Q&A with Public Health Newswire. Eubanks is co-author of "Bad Acts: The Racketeering Case Against the Tobacco Industry."
Surgeon general promotes National Prevention Strategy in Denver
U.S. Surgeon General Regina Benjamin paid a visit to Denver on Wednesday to celebrate National Public Health Week and promote the National Prevention Strategy during an event held at the University of Colorado’s Colorado Center for Health and Wellness.
Federal appeals court backs tobacco regulation law, warning labels
A U.S. appeals court delivered a major public health victory Monday when it ruled to uphold the graphic warning label mandate on cigarette packs in addition to other key measures included in the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act, enacted in 2009.
Surgeon general report: 3.6 million kids smoke, more efforts needed to reduce tobacco use
A new report from the U.S. surgeon general shows that more than 3.6 million U.S. youth smoke cigarettes, but proven strategies exist that can cut that number in half in six years.
Federal judge’s ruling against cigarette warnings undermines science, say health groups
A U.S. District Court judge tossed out a federal mandate on Wednesday that would have required tobacco companies to include new, graphic warning labels on the front of cigarette packs, ruling it violates the First Amendment.
Health departments called upon to put their best health policy forward
Whether it’s strengthening tobacco control policies or ensuring a community is prepared for a health emergency, public health departments, at the state, territorial, local, and tribal level, play vital roles implementing sound public health policy. Health departments are the backbone of a strong, effective public health system and integral to ensuring lifesaving public health policy...
White House marks Great American Smokeout
Today, in observance of the American Cancer Society’s 36th annual Great American Smokeout, the White House released a new video from President Barack Obama underscoring the life-threatening health consequences of smoking.
