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The U.S. Senate will soon begin its work on the FY 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services appropriations bill. I hope Sen. Susan Collins will continue her longstanding support for evidence-based public health programs by funding the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Office on Smoking and Health (OSH) at a minimum of $246.5 million.
The House Appropriations Committee recently advanced legislation that maintains current funding levels for the nation’s leading tobacco prevention and cessation program. This is encouraging. In recent years, proposals have been made to eliminate OSH entirely, despite the enormous toll tobacco use continues to take on American families.
Tobacco use remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Every year, smoking-related illnesses cost billions in healthcare expenses and reduce quality of life for countless Americans. Programs supported through OSH help to educate the public and prevent youth tobacco use that leads to lifelong addiction.
Maine has made a lot of progress in reducing smoking rates, this progress did not happen overnight or at random. It’s the result of sustained investment in prevention, education, and cessation efforts.
Collins has long been recognized for her practical approach to policy and her willingness to support programs that produce tangible and measurable results. Maintaining funding for OSH is a smart investment in both public health and taxpayer dollars.
I encourage Collins to support the House funding level of at least $246.5 million as the Senate considers its appropriations package.
Marlene Bailey
Vassalboro