United Methodist Women
and
Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids

During the April, 2002 Spring Board meeting; the Women’s Division joined the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

Every day in our nation:

  • 5,000 kids, under the age of 18 try their first cigarette
  • 2,000 kids become regular daily smokers
  • one third will die prematurely as a result of tobacco caused diseases
  • Approximately 1 out of 5 pregnant teenagers pass the risks of smoking on to their babies directly or through exposure to second-hand smoke.

    • One of the most effective ways to reduce smoking, particularly among adolescents, is to raise the price of cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products through tax increases. Studies show that for every 10 percent increase in price youth smoking decreases by seven percent.

    The Women’s Division and the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids is urging states to discourage kids from smoking by substantially increasing their excise taxes on cigarettes, smokeless tobacco, and other tobacco products.

    We encourage United Methodist Women to be active within their states encouraging states to increase their excise taxes on tobacco products as another way to discourage our kids from smoking and encouraging a healthier life.

    Be alert to the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids in your state and watch for more information coming soon.

    For more information on cigarette excise taxes please visit the web site at www.tobaccofreekids.org/reports/prices; to find out more information on the campaign within your state and any other questions please contact Joe Spivak at (202) 296-5469.

    Other Helpful Links for Participation in this Campaign: