Senator Introduces Wellness Bill, Targets Smoking

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U.S. Sen. Tom Harkin (D-Iowa) has introduced wellness legislation that includes an initiative to curb smoking, the Quad-City Times reported June 21.

The legislation, which would earmark nearly $5 billion a year on a series of wellness initiatives, would fine tobacco makers if smoking rates among young people are not sufficiently reduced.

"It will save money, save lives, and improve our quality of life," said Harkin of the Healthy Lifestyles and Prevision (HeLP) Act.