COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 20, 2024 — In a victory for public health, an Ohio judge ruled Friday to uphold home rule when it comes to tobacco reduction efforts across the state. Judge Mark Serrott’s decision returns control over issues like flavors elimination and tobacco retail licensure to those local governments listed as plaintiffs in a lawsuit. Those communities with these policies in place that were not listed as plaintiffs will not have the ability to continue enforcement.

“This is a major win for public health,” said Dustin Holfinger, the government relations director for the American Heart Association, which is celebrating 100 years of lifesaving service. “Local lawmakers – those residing in Columbus, Cincinnati, Cleveland, and elsewhere – know best about what the people living in their communities need to become and stay healthy. This ruling begins the process to put power back in the hands of mayors and city councils rather than at the behest of the state legislature.”

The Ohio House voted in December of 2023 and the Senate voted in January of 2024 to override Gov. Mike DeWine’s veto of a tobacco preemption bill. The Legislature’s vote stripped local governments from enacting tobacco control laws and instead required that any legislation to reduce tobacco sales be made by state lawmakers. Public health champions in 21 cities filed a lawsuit in April to challenge the decision and block the new law from taking effect. In the end, the judge found that the new law violated the Ohio Constitution.

“We were not silenced and our commitment to protecting the health and wellbeing of all Ohioans prevailed,” said Holfinger. “Judge Serrott’s ruling sends a clear message to local lawmakers and community members: they know what’s best for their own communities.”

Tobacco use remains a leading cause of preventable disease and death and a major risk factor in the development of cardiovascular disease. Tobacco will kill 480,000 people in the U.S. this year alone including more than 20,000 of them being Ohioans.

 

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.orgFacebookX or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.

 

For Media Inquiries:
Dustin Holfinger, State Government Relations Director; Dustin.Holfinger@heart.org
For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and stroke.org