Anti-Smoking Campaign in Massachusetts Gets Graphic
Massachusetts is upping their game in the move to reduce the number of smokers in the state. A law requiring retailers to post graphic, unflattering pictures related to the effects of smoking is expected to pass in August of this year. The posters will be required to be posted within 2 feet of tobacco displays and cash registers. Failure to do so will result in a fine that could be as much as 300 dollars.
The law will apply to all tobacco sellers, including small corner markets who are already claiming they do not have the space available to post such things. Advocates for the new law are hoping the vision of blackened lungs, rotting teeth and damaged brains will deter a person from purchasing tobacco products. A similar program has been running in New York City and retailers and consumers have accepted the program with little opposition.
A poll suggests that 75 percent of the current smokers in Massachusetts actually want to quit and this new campaign may be just what they need. Previous campaigns that involve only words are ineffective according to Eileen Sullivan, the state’s tobacco control program policy director.
The 316,000 dollar campaign would be funded with money from a federal stimulus package. The campaign qualifies for the stimulus package funds because all the posters that are necessary to the campaign will be outsourced, thus creating jobs. Some of the posters will include information about where a person can go to get the help, they need to quit smoking.
i think its a great idea to gradually stop people from smoking. smoking is one of the reasons why people are dying and unlike some sicknesses like cancer, this is something we can stop.