The decision to stop making cigarettes in California prisons was primarily driven by health concerns and the need to create a healthier environment for both inmates and staff members. Smoking has long been recognized as a major risk factor for various health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory problems.

In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the negative impact of secondhand smoke and the importance of providing smoke-free environments. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) took this into consideration and implemented a statewide smoking ban in 2013, which prohibited smoking in all state prisons and other correctional facilities.

By eliminating cigarette production and tobacco use within prisons, the CDCR aimed to protect the health and well-being of individuals living and working in these facilities. The ban on cigarettes not only benefits those who don’t smoke but also helps smokers who may be trying to quit or reduce their tobacco consumption.

Additionally, the decision to stop making cigarettes aligns with broader efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and reduce the prevalence of smoking in society. It sends a message that smoking is not a desirable or acceptable behavior, and encourages inmates to consider quitting or seeking resources for tobacco cessation programs.

Overall, the decision to cease cigarette production in California prisons reflects a commitment to prioritize the health and safety of individuals within the correctional system and supports the broader public health goals of reducing smoking-related illnesses and promoting healthier communities.

Why did they stop making cigarettes in California prisons?