Where to snuff the puff? Relative effectiveness of U.S. smoking control policies

This research examines the relative effectiveness of various smoking control initiatives in lowering U.S. smoking prevalence. The main contribution lies in considering alternate state-level restrictions on retailers as well as smokers. Greater restrictions on smokers lower smoking prevalence, while those directed at retailers are largely ineffective. Upon disaggregation, territorial restrictions banning smoking in restaurants are found to be effective, whereas those in workplaces and in bars do not appreciably lower smoking prevalence. We also find some gender differences in the effectiveness of smoking restrictions. These findings are generally robust to alternate model specifications.

► This research examines relative effectiveness of U.S. smoking control initiatives.
► The main contribution is in considering state-level restrictions on retailers and smokers.
► Greater restrictions on smokers lower smoking, while those on retailers are ineffective.
► Territorial restrictions banning smoking in restaurants are effective.
► Restrictions in workplaces and bars do not lower smoking prevalence.