SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 587

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is committed to improving the quality of life for all of its residents; and

WHEREAS, Tobacco use is a tremendous burden to Texas, contributing to the premature death of 24,000 Texans each year; and

WHEREAS, Almost 90 percent of adults who smoke began using tobacco before age 18; secondhand smoke is associated with an increased risk for lung cancer and coronary heart disease in nonsmoking adults and endangers the health of children; and

WHEREAS, State tobacco prevention programs have achieved reductions in tobacco use by Texas adults and youth; and

WHEREAS, The Texas Department of State Health Services has partnered with Texas schools and Education Service Centers to support the health and well-being of every student in the state by dedicating a statewide tobacco awareness day; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 80th Legislature, hereby recognize the importance of preventing youth tobacco use; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That the Texas Senate hereby declare March 28, 2007, Texas Tobacco-Free Kids Day in support of promoting a healthy future for Texas youth. Ellis

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on March 28, 2007.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate