Save Prop 99 Funds

On June 8, 2009 Governor Schwarzenegger signed Executive Order S09-09 which suspends State Agency or Department contracts with program providers, among them, vital tobacco control and prevention programs, such as
the Technical Assistance Legal Center, the
USC Materials Development program, the UC Davis Evaluation Center, and the Center for Tobacco Policy and Organizing.

These programs support coalitions, advocates and advocacy efforts by providing materials, analyses, sample "best ordinances, policies, practices, and protocols" advocates use in pursuing tobacco control and prevention initiatives at the local, county, and regional levels. These particular contracts are funded by Proposition 99, California's tobacco tax, and do not emanate nor take from the General Fund. Therefore, eliminating or suspending them will not impact the General Fund.

Since its inception, Prop 99 programs have saved more than 50,000 lives and $86 billion in health carecosts.

What can you do?
Write or call
Kimberly Belshe
Secretary, California Health and Human Services
1600 Ninth Street, Room 460
Sacramento, CA 95814
(916) 654-3454

Request an exemption from Executive Order S09-09 for these and other tobacco control and prevention programs proven effective in reducing tobacco consumption and saving lives.

Download the attached letter to Secretary Belshe and create your personalized letter TODAY.