A framework for mobilizing communities to advance local tobacco control policy: the Los Angeles County experience

Abstract

The Los Angeles County Tobacco Control and Prevention Program was significantly restructured in 2004 to improve capacity for local policy adoption. Restructuring included creating a fully staffed and trained policy unit; partnering with state-funded tobacco control organizations to provide high-quality, continuous technical assistance and training; implementing a highly structured policy adoption approach; expanding community capacity building; and establishing local coalitions to mobilize communities. Over the ensuing 6 years (2004-2010), 97 tobacco control policies were enacted in the county's 88 cities and unincorporated area, including 79 that were attributable to the program. By comparison, only 15 policies were enacted from 1998 to 2003. Expanding policy adoption capacity through program restructuring may be achievable in other local jurisdictions.

Figures

FIGURE 1—

The Policy Adoption and Implementation Model. Note. The model divides a local tobacco control policy campaign into 5 distinct phases, each with a specific objective and campaign activities With this step-by-step approach, knowledge, experience, and momentum acquired from performing campaign activities in each phase build toward the next.

FIGURE 2—

Number of tobacco control policies adopted in Los Angeles County, 1998–2010. Note. TCPP = Tobacco Control and Prevention Program.

Campaign staff member monitors smoke-free parks policy implementation (phase 5) by assessing signage.