Rebranding and Rebounding from a Failed Clean Air Policy Campaign

Audience: Tobacco control advocates and those interested in attaining comprehensive Clean Indoor Air (CIA) policies at the local level. Key Points: Many states achieve effective secondhand smoke protection through local policies. Advocacy in West Virginia has long focused on securing local smoke free policies through county boards of health. The first countywide CIA regulation in WV, which established smoking sections in restaurants, was enacted by Monongalia County in 1992. By 2005, the county that passed the first local regulation had the weakest level of protection in WV, still permitting smoking in most workplaces including restaurants, bars, and office break rooms. The release of the 2006 Surgeon General Report on Secondhand Smoke renewed interest in CIA in Monongalia County. A local coalition launched a two-year campaign to urge the Board of Health (BOH) to pass a comprehensive regulation. When the campaign failed, the coalition was forced to accept defeat, retreat and wait for more favorable conditions. The Monongalia County tobacco prevention coalition resurfaced in 2011 with a new name and a new campaign; ultimately winning passage of the most comprehensive CIA policy in West Virginia. Additionally, historic policy collaboration occurred between a city council and the local board of health. Educational Experience: Attendees will participate in a discussion of lessons learned and share strategies for changing the course of policy campaigns. Benefits: Advocates who have experienced setbacks in campaigns will learn to reflect on lessons learned, develop new strategies, await political climate changes, and achieve success in later campaigns.