Prevention Matters

Yesterday, the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation launched a new interactive map that provides the latest data on tobacco policies by state. Using information courtesy of the Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, the map focuses on three different aspects of tobacco policy: 1) smoke-free laws; 2) cigarette tax rates; and 3) tobacco control spending. “Users will be able to see whether a state is ahead or behind the curve in protecting and promoting health,” says Michelle Larkin, J.D., M.S., R.N., leader of RWJF’s Public Health Team.

With its array of colors and pop-up menus, the map points out that Rhode Island and Connecticut have the highest tax rates in the U.S.--$3.46 and $3.00, respectively. The map also shows that North Dakota is the only state that spends 100% or more of state funding for tobacco control relative to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations.

Brandi Robinson
Program Associate, Partnership for Prevention