Families Touched by Cancer to Convene at State House for Ice Cream Social; Urge Lawmakers to End Sale of Menthol Cigarettes and All Flavored Tobacco Products
Vermont Business Magazine On Wednesday, the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) will host its annual Cancer Action Day, where dozens of advocates will convene at the State House to meet with lawmakers and urge them to end the sale of menthol cigarettes and all flavored tobacco products. Advocates and lawmakers will also have a chance to enjoy local Vermont ice cream with the pressing reminder that flavors belong in candy and ice cream – not tobacco!
This year is particularly meaningful, as it marks the first-time advocates have been able to return to the State House since the start of the pandemic.
WHAT: ACS CAN Cancer Action Day & Ice Cream Social – because flavors belong in ice cream, not tobacco!
WHO: Survivors, students, patient advocates and public health experts to share their personal stories and urge lawmakers to pass S.18
WHERE: Vermont State House Cafeteria
WHEN: Wednesday, April 26, 3-5pm
“It’s startling that Vermont high schoolers are smoking cigarettes at a rate that is nearly triple the national average – despite all we know about the negative health impacts of this deadly product. Tobacco products like cotton candy, fruit punch, menthol and mint are driving Big Tobacco’s comeback attempt, and it’s hooking a new generation,” said Mike Rollo, director of government relations for ACS CAN in Vermont.
“Research shows 81% of kids who have ever tried tobacco starting with a flavored product. Imagine what that number might look like if we ended the sale of all flavored tobacco products, including menthol, here in our state? It’s time to find out. We hope lawmakers will listen to the concerned Vermonters gathered here today and commit to passing S18. Let’s keep flavors where they belong – in ice cream and candy – and out of tobacco products.”
About ACS CAN
The American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network (ACS CAN) makes cancer a top priority for policymakers at every level of government. ACS CAN empowers volunteers across the country to make their voices heard to influence evidence-based public policy change that improves the lives of people with cancer and their families. We believe everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to prevent, find, treat, and survive cancer. Since 2001, as the American Cancer Society’s nonprofit, nonpartisan advocacy affiliate, ACS CAN has successfully advocated for billions of dollars in cancer research funding, expanded access to quality affordable health care, and advanced proven tobacco.
MONTPELIER, VT – APRIL 21, 2023 – American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network
