Tobacco report gives state high marks

By Curtis Lum
Advertiser Staff Writer

Hawai'i was one of only six states to receive the highest grade given by the American Lung Association for tobacco prevention and control spending in 2003, a drastic improvement from the D the state received in 2002.

Overall, the state improved in all four categories in the Lung Association's State of Tobacco Control 2003 report to be released today. The national report card analyzed tobacco control laws in four areas: youth access to tobacco, smoke-free air, tobacco program financing, and cigarette excise taxes.

In 2003, Hawai'i was ranked near the top among the 50 states and was one of the most improved from 2002, the report said.

The state received an A for its commitment to spending more than $9 million on smoking prevention. In 2002, Hawai'i received a D in this category for spending $6.9 million.

Hawai'i was given B grades for smoke-free laws and the amount of taxes charged per pack of cigarettes. In 2002, the state received an F in the smoke-free category and a B for cigarette taxes.

The lowest grade in 2003 was a C for work controlling youth access to tobacco products, an improvement from the D in 2002.

Malcolm Koga, president of the American Lung Association of Hawai'i, said he was pleased with the report card, but said the state should not be complacent.

"Even though the state government has dedicated good funding towards tobacco education programs the past few years, it's common knowledge that such funding may be curtailed due to budget shortfalls," Koga said. "Hawai'i should continue using funds received from the Master Settlement Agreement ... for tobacco prevention and control purposes."

In 1998, the tobacco industry agreed to pay 46 states about $206 billion over 25 years to cover the states' healthcare costs. Hawai'i's share is estimated at $1.3 billion.

Reach Curtis Lum at 525-8025 or culum@honoluluadvertiser.com.