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Kids in Missouri are joining thousands of children across the country today to rally against tobacco. They are taking part of the 13th annual Kick Butts Day, sponsored by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. Children in the Ozarks are doing their part too. KSMU's Jana Greer has more.
Kick Butts Day is an annual event that aims to teach kids about the risks of tobacco. Danny McGoldrick is the Vice President of Research for the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids. He explains what the event is all about.
This year's event seeks to raise awareness on how tobacco advertisements are still aimed towards kids. A survey conducted last month by International Communications Research showed that kids still feel targeted by tobacco ads.
The event also goes along with a bill that is expected to be voted on today in the U.S. House of Representatives. If the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act is passed, it would grant the FDA more control over tobacco companies and their products. Bill Phelps is a spokesperson for Altria, the parent company of Philip Morris. He says legislation like this is why they don't market towards kids.
Branson Junior High and Forsyth Junior High are partnering with the Taney County Health Department to participate in the event by setting up booths and asking people to sign cards pledging to not use tobacco.