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Wednesday, February 02, 2000 Page: 12A
I commend Gov. Tom Ridge for his commitment to use 100 percent of the
recovery funds from the tobacco settlement for health-care initiatives. I urge
the members of the General Assembly to follow the governor’s lead when they
debate how to spend Pennsylvania’s $11.3 billion settlement.
As one of eight attorneys general who negotiated the national tobacco
settlement, I believe this money should be used to improve the health of
Pennsylvanians today and in the future. We have a historic opportunity to
greatly reduce youth smoking, help adults kick the habit and fund vital
research into cancer and other smoking-related diseases.
I believe the governor’s proposal to dedicate 40 percent of the settlement
to provide health insurance for uninsured Pennsylvanians and 10 percent to
reimburse hospitals for uncompensated care would strengthen our state’s health
system.
I also support the governor’s plan to dedicate 15 percent to health
research, 15 percent to home and community-based care, and another 15 percent
to smoking prevention and cessation programs. Pennsylvania is home to many
preeminent cancer and disease research centers that would benefit from these
funds. Home and community-based care is a vital service for those battling the
effects of disease. And we must realize that the best strategy to combat
smoking-related illnesses is to convince our citizens not to smoke.
Finally, I commend the governor for proposing that 5 percent of the
settlement, plus the state’s initial payment of $142 million, be dedicated to
an endowment that will provide funding for health initiatives in the future.
By investing a portion of our recovery now, we are assured of continuing our
health-care commitments for future generations of Pennsylvanians.
The citizens of the Commonwealth can ensure that these goals are met by
contacting their legislators and asking them to support the governor’s
proposal. Together, we can make a historic investment in the health and
well-being of Pennsylvanians. This is an opportunity that should not be
squandered.
Mike Fisher
Attorney General
Harrisburg