Connecticut House Bill HB05470

Connecticut 2020 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/5/20
• Refer: 3/5/20

Caption

An Act Concerning Tobacco Use Prevention Programs For Persons Under Twenty-one Years Of Age.

Impact

If enacted, HB 05470 will significantly increase state funding allocated towards tobacco use prevention efforts targeting those under twenty-one. The bill appropriates substantial financial resources, specifically $100,000 to the Department of Revenue Services and $25,000 to the Attorney General's office for research and enforcement of tobacco-related regulations. This financial backing is essential for fostering health education initiatives and youth engagement programs aimed at curbing tobacco dependence and raising awareness about its dangers.

Summary

House Bill 05470 seeks to establish and enhance programs aimed at reducing tobacco use among individuals under the age of twenty-one. The bill emphasizes the importance of prevention programs, education on the health risks associated with tobacco usage, and cessation support for young individuals. This initiative is backed by the need to mitigate the health hazards caused by tobacco, especially in the youth demographic, which is increasingly vulnerable to tobacco's negative effects.

Contention

The proposed bill has sparked discussions regarding its effectiveness and the extent to which it will address the persistent issue of tobacco use among youth. Supporters argue that the funding and programs established through this bill are necessary for driving long-lasting behavioral changes and improving public health outcomes. However, critics may contend that without comprehensive enforcement, the effectiveness of educational programs alone is limited. Balancing education and regulation may be a point of contention during legislative discussions surrounding the bill.