State of Tobacco Control

Every year since 2003, the American Lung Association has put out a national State of Tobacco Control report.

It gives every state grades in several areas related to stopping smoking.

How did Michigan do this year?

And how does the U.P. compare to the state as a whole?

The report gave Michigan two ‘F’s, a ‘C’ and a ‘B’.

The two ‘F’ grades came in areas that Michigan joined more than 30 other states in failing — funding tobacco cessation programs and covering those programs and other treatments under insurance plans.

The ‘C’ was for Michigan’s $2-per-pack cigarette tax.

And the ‘B’ was for smoke-free air, largely because of the smoking ban law that took effect last May.

U.P. smoking rates are also much higher than the state average.

You can find out more about that on ABC 10 News Now at 5:30 and 11 tonight.