Anti-Smoking Programs Will See Cuts In Funding

The proposed State Budget contains a 50% cut in funding for Tobacco Free Allegheny. As a result the anti-smoking group is planning on cutting 9 of its 12 programs on September 30Th. The three programs that will remain include two prevention programs that target school age children and a cessation program that focuses on the workplace. If the proposed budget stays as is Tobacco Free Allegheny will only see $1 million from the state as opposed to the previously expected $2.1 million. The reduction in funding is part of an overall $16 million reduction statewide.