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House Co-Sponsorship Memoranda
House of Representatives
Session of 2021 - 2022
Regular Session
MEMORANDUM
| Posted: | April 26, 2022 11:53 AM |
|---|---|
| From: | Representative Danilo Burgos |
| To: | All House members |
| Subject: | Performance Audit of the Tobacco Policy and Control Program |
| According to the American Heart Association, nicotine is reportedly as addictive as cocaine or heroin. Further, some researchers report that trying to quit smoking can be just as hard or even harder than quitting opioid use. As of 2018, the statewide percentage of smoking among adults in Pennsylvania was 17 percent, one point higher than the national percentage. Fortunately, programs like the Tobacco Policy and Control Program in Philadelphia provide incredibly important tools for reducing the rates of smoking among adults and youth. Get Healthy Philly’s Tobacco Policy and Control Program promotes smoke-free environments by enforcing policies that restrict smoking. Funded jointly by the state and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), this program also conducts investigations to ensure tobacco restrictions are systemically and uniformly enforced. Unfortunately, concerns have been raised that these investigations are not being conducted properly. To ensure this essential program is operating honestly, I am introducing a resolution to direct the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee (LBFC) to conduct a performance audit of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health’s Tobacco Policy and Control Program. Based on their initial findings, LBFC believes they have the authority to examine this program closer and determine the competence of its investigations. Through these efforts, we may more effectively reduce and prevent tobacco use throughout the state. Please join me in co-sponsoring this important resolution to better improve the health and safety of all Pennsylvanians. |
Introduced as HR201