This paper will discuss the development of tobacco control policy in an under-served population: tobacco-producing states. The tobacco-producing states have few tobacco control laws, and they are relatively weak compared to those in non-tobacco growing states. For example, the average cigarette tax in the six major tobacco-growing states is seven cents per pack, while the average in the other states is more than 30 cents per pack higher. As a result of weak public policy, tobacco-growing states often rely on the private sector to enact voluntary tobacco control policies. By using a coordinated interagency evaluation model, tobacco control policies are developed in collaboration with workplaces, public and private schools, food service establishments, local health departments, lawmakers, and community groups. Issues related to evaluation methods, sample selection, recruitment, data collection procedures, and information dissemination will be discussed. The evaluation model will be presented within the larger policymaking context including an understanding of the characteristics of decision makers (e.g., experience raising tobacco, legislative skill, political party affiliation), the constituency (e.g., public opinion), and the decision situation (e.g., tobacco company contributions). Although tobacco industry contributions have been shown to influence voting behavior in states where tobacco is not a major cash crop, this does not hold true in at least one tobacco-growing state. Predictors of voting on tobacco control bills in one tobacco-growing state will be presented.
Learning Objectives: 1. Analyze an evaluation model for developing a strategic plan for comprehensive tobacco control policy development using intermediate and primary outcomes in the public and private sectors. 2. Discuss evaluation and surveillance issues in the development of tobacco control policy in the under-served population of tobacco-growing states
Keywords: Evaluation, Policy/Policy Development
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: University of Kentucky College of Nursing;
Kentucky Department for Public Health;
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Associate Professor, University of Kentucky College of Nursing; Principal Investigator, Program Evaluation for the Kentucky Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program, funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention through a grant to the Kentucky