Our coalition has been hard at work gathering community input through surveys and stakeholder meetings to shape our updated workplan and secure continued funding through the Nebraska state legislature. Despite recent federal and state funding cuts to tobacco prevention education, we remain deeply committed to our mission of creating a healthier Lancaster County.
These changes present challenges, but they also create opportunities for community members, organizations, and advocates to step up and help prioritize impactful work across our region.
Smoke-Free Multi-Unit Housing Policies
One of our key focus areas involves supporting policies that protect residents in apartment complexes and multi-unit housing. Secondhand smoke travels easily between units through shared ventilation systems, electrical outlets, and doorways. According to the American Lung Association, smoke-free housing policies protect all residents—especially children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions—from involuntary exposure to harmful tobacco smoke and vaping aerosols.
Restricting Menthol and Flavored Tobacco Products
We’re also advancing local policies that address the sale of menthol cigarettes and flavored tobacco and vaping products. Research from the CDC shows that flavored products are particularly appealing to young people and can serve as a gateway to nicotine addiction. By working with local policymakers, we aim to reduce youth access to these harmful products.
Strengthening Tobacco Cessation Support Systems
Quitting tobacco is one of the best things anyone can do for their health, but it’s not easy. That’s why we’re partnering with healthcare providers, schools, and social service organizations to connect individuals with proven cessation resources. The Nebraska Tobacco Quitline offers free coaching, support, and in some cases, nicotine replacement therapy to help Nebraskans quit for good.
Promoting Cultural Diversity and Competency
Effective public health work must reflect the communities it serves. We’re committed to promoting inclusive practices that respect and celebrate the cultural richness of Lancaster County, ensuring our prevention and cessation efforts reach everyone who needs them.
Our work is funded by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services through the Tobacco Free Nebraska Program as a result of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement.
Join the Fight for a Tobacco-Free Community
Whether you’re a resident, business owner, healthcare provider, or community advocate, your voice and actions make a real difference. Together, we can build a healthier future for Lancaster County. Visit tobaccofreelancastercounty.org/get-involved to learn how you can contribute to our mission.
