National
 
A study conducted by researchers with the Bridging the Gap project funded through the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, demonstrates a direct relationship between the level of states’ funding for tobacco prevention programs and both the prevalence of youth smoking and the number of cigarettes they smoke. The authors proposed that if states had spent the minimum amounts recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention over the past 10 years, the youth smoking rate could be between 3-14 percent lower. To view the abstract, visit: http://www.ajph.org/cgi/content/abstract/95/2/338. State data and a comprehensive report of the tobacco settlement spending are also available at: http://tobaccofreekids.org/reports/settlements/2005/fullreport.pdf

New Mexico
 
Despite the numerous programs implemented in Santa Fe public schools for tobacco and alcohol awareness and prevention, the city has smoking rates as much as 10% higher than other New Mexico cities. To combat these statistics, the Health Department has created a “blue ribbon task force.” Parents and activists will be included as members of the task force, but young people will have the most significant input on interventions and program planning for the community.

Wisconsin
 
While most regions use their tobacco money for prevention and education, La Cross County, Wisconsin has implemented a unique program at their high schools. The Health Department will be offering the “Not On Tobacco (N-O-T)” program on a free and voluntary basis available through the school system.

For more information on the Not On Tobacco (N-O-T) program, please visit: http://www.lungusa.org/site/apps/s/content.asp?c=dvLUK9O0E&b =34706&ct
=66727.

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