Comprehensive Tobacco Control

The Legislature passed Governor Palin’s $1 million increment to the state Tobacco Prevention and Control program! The additional funding will bring Alaska to the minimum funding levels recommended by the Centers for Disease Control. This is a huge accomplishment, allowing the state to expand prevention, cessation and policy efforts. The American Lung Association of Alaska, along with its partners, worked hard to protect this funding as it went through the committee process.

Support for Alaskans with Asthma-YOUR ASSISTANCE NEEDED! 

Success! The FY09 Capital Budget included a grant to ALAA to address asthma in the state. This funding will support our summer camps for kids with asthma, as well as efforts to educate providers about best practices for the treatment and management of the disease. While we’re celebrating this success, the fight is not over. We must let Governor Palin know that this funding is crucial to public health in Alaska. Click here for more information, and to send a letter of support for this important program.

2007 Champ Campers Smile for the Camera!

Other issues of Interest

The Legislature passed HB 166, which will allow Alaskans to donate part, or all of the PFDs to a favorite charity or education organization. The operating budget also included over $3 million for Community Health Centers. These facilities are critical to providing health services to low-income Alaskans. Unfortunately, funding for obesity prevention was not included in the final operating budget, but we hope to work with partners next year on this critical public health issue.