Tobacco Free Indiana Advocacy Day 2025: Advocates uniting to change the future of health

On February 12th, 2025, the American Heart Association participated in the annual Tobacco-Free Indiana Advocacy Day 2025 at the State Capitol in Indianapolis, bringing together four hundred passionate advocates, legislators, and organizations such as Tobacco Free Indiana, the American Lung Association, ACS-CAN, and the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. The event’s main goal was to advocate for a tobacco tax increase.

Throughout the day, advocates held over twenty meetings with legislators and their staff. These discussions were met with positive responses, with many legislators expressing support and committing to further action. A group of teen leaders from Voices met with their lawmaker, sparking excitement for supporting restrictions on vapes and e-cigarettes. Their enthusiasm was contagious, and they shared their success with others.

The immediate outcomes were promising: many legislators expressed their support for a tobacco tax increase, with several already backing the proposal.

The day was filled with inspiring moments, particularly from the youth advocates, who came from all corners of the state. They met with their legislators and were even invited to sit in the House Chamber seats. Many posted pictures of the friends and family members they were advocating for, adding a personal touch to their advocacy efforts.

Overall, the Tobacco Free Indiana Advocacy Day 2025 was a resounding success. It demonstrated the power of advocates uniting to change the future of health by speaking out and speaking up to advance policies that are improving lives and creating healthier communities.

Check out press coverage of the event from Groups rally for Tobacco-Free Indiana Day at Indiana Statehouse.