Coalition urges Congress to boost CDC tobacco prevention funding
Request consistent with ADA policy
The ADA joined a coalition of health organizations in urging Congress to provide $310 million for tobacco prevention and cessation programs at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The coalition, led by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, sent identical letters March 18 to leaders of the Senate and House Appropriations subcommittees overseeing Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies, emphasizing the critical role the CDC plays in protecting public health from tobacco-related disease.
“At a time when there is renewed focus on preventing chronic disease and protecting children’s health, it is essential that Congress provide CDC with necessary resources to reduce the death and disease caused by tobacco use and other risks to public health,” the coalition said.
The letter acknowledges the level funding for tobacco cessation and prevention included in the final fiscal year 2026 appropriations bill but stresses the need for an increase for fiscal year 2027. The coalition highlighted that tobacco use remains the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S., claiming nearly 500,000 lives each year and contributing to $241 billion in tobacco-related disease. More than 60% of these costs are borne by government programs such as Medicare and Medicaid.
The coalition’s letter underscores several public health priorities, including preventing youth nicotine addiction; supporting state and local tobacco programs; and promoting national campaigns and quitlines.
According to the coalition, additional funding will allow the CDC to expand these efforts, including enhancing quitline services, strengthening state tobacco control programs and continuing public education campaigns.
“CDC’s focus on public education, data collection, and state, tribal, and national programs to reduce tobacco use is uniquely important,” the coalition said. “Additional funding for tobacco cessation and prevention programs at CDC, including the Office on Smoking and Health, will enable states to strengthen tobacco control efforts, expand quitline services, and will enhance the Tips media campaign, ensuring better support and protection for children and adults against the harms of tobacco use.”
