Tobacco Documents Online

Presents "the legislative portion of the comprehensive public smoking program" to the Tobacco Institute Executive Committee. States "our current legislative efforts are on target" because "we continue to win more than 90 percent of the state battles we face . . . however, sustained effort and a few new approaches are required." Indicates a "new, aggressive stance" to make anti-tobacco groups "react and respond to our issues . . . to expend their efforts and dollars to try to protect what is already on the books." Discusses new approaches of "repealing/modifying/rolling back existing legislation . . . of promoting ventilation . . . or IAQ [Indoor Air Quality] legislation . . . and smokers' rights legislation."

States that the Tobacco Institute staff are overwhelmed by the volume of "extra-legislative initiative[s]" currently up for concern. Opines that the real problem may be linked to a lack of a "thoughtful and systematic approach or the attention to detail or the organizational zest required for the workmanlike conduct of the complicated, expensive and terribly important campaigns." Offers detailed examples of how current staff have failed to achieve goals regarding countering cigarette tax initiatives. Upholds suggestion by member companies that dedicated campaign specialists should be added to the State Activities Division staff.

Highlights Jolly Ann Davidson interviews in Alaska, in regard to the Tobacco: Helping Youth Say No (THYSN) booklet. Stresses the importance of peer pressure as the primary reason for youth tobacco use initiation.

Handwritten notes. Highlights Jolly Ann Davidson interviews in Alaska in regard to the Helping Youth Decide booklet and the Responsible Living Program. States that trip was "successful" with "good positive response to the program." Details interview with a "Morton Downey Jr" type interviewer, who was less than positive about program. Claims, "Obviously I handled it well as he dropped that attack."

Opines that a cigarette tax increase will be decided by the price of oil in Alaska. Proposes plan to counter potential tax increase. Identifies potential strategies: economic impact statement (bootlegging and regressivity arguments), witnesses, allies, grassroots lobbying, calls and letters to legislators, and a media tour.

[Note: pages of document are reversed in digital image] Lists radio and television appearances of Gray Robertson in Alaska and Washington.

Delivers a profile of Alaska regarding tobacco industry concerns. Includes political environment, current tax, current restrictions, major issues, needed resources, and "other issues." Divides Major Issues into: "defensive," noting Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funding and expected local battles over taxes and marketing issues; and "offensive," noting "marketing pre-emption, including AAA [Action Against Access], and tort reform. Indicates need to "maximize targeted political contributions" and to "add counsel to lobby team for local issues."