Learning Objectives: Identify opportunities for involvement with local municipalities Develop a strategy for providing technical assistance on tobacco control initiatives at the local level Assess local efforts in connection with statewide efforts
Abstract: Traditionally local health departments provide basic health services and work with legislators on bills affecting public health such as immunization requirements and cancer registries. When it comes to tobacco control initiatives, some local health departments believe that this area is off-limits. Well nothing could be further from the truth. Who better to be involved than local health departments whose core mission is the prevention of disease and premature deaths? Most local health departments have existing relationships with mayors, village managers and law enforcement. These relationships make educating and initiating local tobacco control legislation a natural fit.
For the past six years, the Cook County Department of Public Health has taken an active role in shaping and lobbying on behalf of local tobacco control lawas including vendor licensing, self-service sales and clean indoor air. In addition, the health department is a member of the state tobacco control coalition and brings its local contacts to the table to assist with statewide initiatives.
This workshop will include a discussion on public health department involvement in local tobacco control activities. Participants will learn how to assess their existing relationships, identify which community would benefit from technical assistance and how to begin the process. Participants will receive model ordinances, a sample action plan and examples of local campaigns.
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