As our state faces an alarming rise in e-cigarettes and tobacco use, lawmakers must substantially increase funding for programs that address tobacco use.

As the adult child of two parents who smoked, I am calling on Sen. David Givens to increase funding to $10 million for the state’s tobacco prevention and cessation program to combat this alarming trend.

The toll of tobacco in Kentucky is a huge problem, and we must do more to fight Big Tobacco. In Kentucky, smoking is responsible for 8,900 deaths each year, including roughly 37% of cancer deaths. However, if our lawmakers commit to substantially increased funding for lifesaving tobacco control programs, we can reduce these numbers, save lives and create real, sustainable change.

Both of my parents were smokers. They are also both deceased. I believe that tobacco use was a contributing factor in their deaths. I can’t bring them back, but by advocating for this increase in funding, someone else’s parents will have a tomorrow with them.

The data is clear: well-funded tobacco control programs save lives. I urge Givens and all lawmakers to take action to prevent kids from starting to use tobacco and help those who want to quit – thereby saving lives. Please support $10 million in funding for programs addressing tobacco use.

Kim Lindgren

Bowling Green