Invest in programs to make Iowa a healthier state

Almost every day we hear the governor or another elected official talk about (a) getting our fiscal house in order and (b) assuring that Iowa is the “healthiest state” in the country. Many of the efforts at fiscal responsibility are like homeowners who do not spend the money necessary to fix the leaking roof in their homes. While the homeowners' bank accounts are growing, ultimately their homes will be in disarray.

The State of Iowa's investment in tobacco control and cessation programs is substantially less than 50 percent of what it was in 2010. Meanwhile, smoking rates are increasing. Tobacco-related illnesses cost the state more than $1 billion every year.

Within a few weeks the state will receive a check from the tobacco industry of about $11 million as its share of the Master Settlement Agreement. Less than one-third of that will be invested in tobacco prevention and control programs. The balance will go into the state's general fund. Yet, recently released data shows a return of $13 for every $1 invested in cessation programs. The budgets proposed by the governor and House leadership budget provide for no increase in funding for tobacco use prevention and cessation programs. The Senate budget proposes a modest increase. The governor and the Legislature need to take the $11 million and invest it in programs that will have an impact on making Iowa a healthier state. Smoke and mirrors and empty rhetoric are not going to stop the roof from leaking.

Gary Streit

Cedar Rapids