Tobacco Initiative Team with Saint Joseph Health System met with Gov. Braun

Breathe Easy Marshall County Alliance successfully met with Governor Mike Braun at the Indiana State House on March 12. The meeting focused on increasing the cigarette tax, education in public schools about vaping, smoking policies in the workplace, and prevention.

Governor Braun, elected as the 52nd Governor of Indiana on November 8 and sworn into office on January 13, 2025, has been a strong advocate for prevention and education. The meeting provided an opportunity for Breathe Easy Marshall County Alliance to engage in meaningful dialogue and explore collaborative efforts to increase cigarette tax and smoking/vaping policies in public school systems, as well as prevention and education.

Attendees at the meeting included:

•Governor Mike Braun: Governor of Indiana

•Annette Haining: Tobacco Education Coordinator for Marshall County

•Jalysa Gibson: Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for Marshall County

•Latorya Greene:  Director, Community Health& Well-Being and Tobacco Initiatives, Saint Joseph Health System

•Jennifer Egilmez: Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator for St. Joseph County

"We were honored to have the opportunity to meet with Governor Braun and discuss these important issues," said Annette Haining. "We believe this meeting has paved the way for significant advancements in our shared goals."

The meeting took place at the Governor's office located at 200 W. Washington St., Rm. 206, Indianapolis, IN 46204.