Kentucky’s Smoking Rate Gains National Attention

Legislators fail to act on law to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure and help smokers quit

It is always nice to see Kentucky leading the way: College Basketball, Natural Parks and with Kynect having high registration in the Affordable Care Act Heath Insurance Plan. And, Kentucky's residents may need health coverage more than any other state.

A STATEMENT FROM SMOKE-FREE KENTUCKY COALITION

"This week, Kentucky’s issue with tobacco has taken center stage in the national media. Right now, Kentucky’s Legislators could do something to change the negative image the rest of America has of Kentucky. Kentucky can quit being No. 1 in tobacco use and lung cancer by implementing a smoke-free law. The House and Senate have both failed to act on this life-saving legislation to eliminate secondhand smoke exposure and help smokers quit."

Here is more from the coalition.

"Manchester, Kentucky in Clay County, home of Senate President Robert Stivers was the focus of these two articles. We're pleased Manchester is one of dozens of Kentucky communities to protect the public from the dangers of secondhand smoke, but more needs to be done to protect Kentuckians. A comprehensive state law is a smart first step in that effort, and Manchester's own Sen. Robert Stivers could be the leader who brings who rises above the tobacco epidemic in Kentucky by allowing SB 117 a fair shot. Smoke-Free Kentucky urges President Stivers to follow the lead of other Manchester elected officials to protect Kentuckians from the direct and indirect dangers of smoking"

As the New York Times article says, “visiting Clay County is like traveling back in time. Its smoking rate was last seen in the country as a whole in 1970.”

USA Today got on our case, too.

Meanwhile, enjoy this humorous romp.