RHODE ISLAND KEY FACTS

In 2015, 25.1% of Rhode Island high school youth reported currently using any tobacco product, including e-cigarettes. Among Rhode Island high school youth, 4.8% reported currently smoking cigarettes.

PUBLIC HEALTH RESPONSE TO TOBACCO USE IN RHODE ISLAND

Rhode Island has a history of strong tobacco control programs. The state was among the first to adopt a comprehensive smoke-free law that prohibits smoking in all indoor areas of workplaces, restaurants, and bars. Because inexpensive and flavored tobacco products appeal to youth, Providence adopted new ordinances in 2012 to address these issues. Enactment of these new ordinances prohibits tobacco retailers from accepting or redeeming any coupons for tobacco products and prohibits the sale of any flavored tobacco products other than menthol. Similar policies have also been adopted in Central Falls and Woonsocket. Today, Rhode Island has the lowest reported youth smoking rate in the country at 4.8%.

For more information on tobacco prevention and control, visit cdc.gov/tobacco.