Extinguishing the tobacco epidemic in North Dakota

NORTH DAKOTA KEY FACTSIn 2015, 31.1% of North Dakota high school youth reported currently using any tobacco product, including e-cigarettes. Among North Dakota high school youth, 11.7% reported currently smoking cigarettes.PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE TO TOBACCO USE IN NORTH DAKOTAThere is no safe level of exposure to secondhand smoke. It causes stroke, lung cancer, and coronary heart disease in adults. North Dakota has a comprehensive smoke-free law that prohibits smoking in all indoor areas of workplaces, restaurants, and bars that has been in effect since 2012. North Dakota also prohibits use of electronic cigarettes in places where smoking is also prohibited. Upon request, the state provides research, data and analysis, and scientific consultation to state and local lawmakers and communities about the latest tobacco prevention and control science. In 2015, the state prohibited electronic cigarette sales and use by minors and also required child-resistant packaging for liquid nicotine containers. Several communities, such as Grand Forks and Bismarck, have also enacted local laws requiring tobacco licenses for stores selling electronic cigarettes and requiring that these products be placed behind the counter.For more information on tobacco prevention and control, visit cdc.gov/tobacco