Indiana receives failing grades in tobacco control; advocates push for higher taxes 

A new report from the American Lung Association highlights Indiana’s struggles in combating tobacco use, issuing failing grades in key areas like tobacco taxes and prevention funding.The 2025 “State of Tobacco Control” report calls on Indiana lawmakers to raise taxes on all tobacco products, increase funding for prevention programs and expand smoke-free workplace laws. With tobacco use contributing to significant health and economic burdens, the report warns of growing industry tactics to attract young users through flavored products and social media marketing. “According to the National Youth Tobacco Survey, youth tobacco use is at the lowest level it has been in 25 years; however, the number of middle and high school students who still use tobacco products — 2.25 million — is too high. In addition, 36 million adults in the U.S. still smoke cigarettes,” said Harold Wimmer, president and CEO of the American Lung Association.Advocates, including Tiffany Nichols of the American Lung Association in Indiana, emphasize that policy changes like a $2-per-pack cigarette tax hike could significantly reduce tobacco consumption, especially among youth.The report highlights Indiana’s ongoing struggles with tobacco use, awarding failing grades in areas such as tobacco prevention funding, access to cessation programs and tobacco taxes. The...