The American Lung Association's Advocacy efforts have fueled the fight against Big Tobacco and the struggle to maintain healthy air quality standards. Without the support of a informed and concerned public, these efforts would be lost. Your action is our greatest asset when it comes to our legislative efforts.

Capitol Lobby Day

Five local representatives were among the 75 “citizen lobbyists” from around the state who participated in the American Lung Association of California’s fourth annual Capitol Lobby Day on Wednesday, February 26th. Representing the American Lung Association of California, Superior Branch (ALACSB) were Advisory Board President, Dr. James Fletcher, Advisory Board Member Allen Sherwood, CSU, Chico student volunteer Monica Stark, volunteer Brian Peterson, and Executive Director, Patty Davis. The group met with Assemblymember Rick Keene, and aides to Assemblymember Doug LaMalfa and Senator Sam Aanestad about important issues to the constituents in the north valley. They asked legislators to support AB 1500 (Diaz) and SB 981 (Soto), which would provide an ongoing source of stable funding for incentive programs to reduce diesel pollution and other important clean air programs. The group also asked legislators to support SB 656 (Sher), to require the California Air Resources Board and local air pollution control districts to further reduce particle pollution by adopting cost-effective and proven control measures statewide. The policymakers were also asked to oppose budget cuts to the Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA), so that OEHHA’s expertise can help maintain California’s leadership role in programs that protect public health. Lastly, the group advocated for a portion of any new tobacco taxes to be earmarked for tobacco prevention and education programs to help prevent children from starting to smoke and to help smokers quit.

Advocacy Network

Make a difference by making your voice heard! Join our Online Advocacy Network! As an Advocacy Network member, you will receive “calls for action” which allow you to write elected officials about specific legislation through email. It is fast, easy, and can help make a positive impact for clean air, tobacco prevention, asthma, and other lung health issues. Become an Advocacy Network member today by visiting www.californialung.org.