Featured Research Faculty: Y. Tony Yang

What research are you working on now?

I am examining the impact of state laws that preempt stronger local tobacco control regulations. My study investigates whether these preemption laws are associated with increased tobacco use, secondhand smoke exposure (SHSe), and tobacco retail disparities, especially among vulnerable populations such as racial/ethnic minorities, lower socioeconomic status (SES) groups,
and rural communities. The research will analyze data from 1999 to 2021, employing multilevel modeling to evaluate individual-level and community-level outcomes of tobacco use and retail density in relation to the enactment or repeal of preemption laws.

Why is this work important?

This research is crucial as it addresses a significant gap in understanding how state preemption laws affect public health and exacerbate tobacco-related health disparities. The findings have the
potential to illuminate mechanisms by which preemption laws hinder local policy efforts aimed at reducing tobacco use and SHSe. Given that tobacco control policies can greatly influence public health outcomes, our work emphasizes the need for equitable regulations to protect communities that are disproportionately targeted by the tobacco industry.

What are the potential policy implications of your work?

This work could have profound policy implications by providing evidence to inform state and local policymakers on the adverse impacts of preemption laws on health equity. The findings could guide legislative efforts to repeal or modify such laws to empower local jurisdictions in implementing more effective tobacco control measures. Additionally, the research may influence broader policy discussions beyond tobacco control, contributing insights relevant to areas like firearm safety and public health interventions affected by similar preemption dynamics.