My name is Jackson Hoggatt, and I am a 10th grader at Hulbert High School. I recently joined YAHL (Youth Action for Health Leadership), and I’m excited to learn how young people can make a real difference in their communities. YAHL partners with CounterAct Tobacco, a campaign focused on reducing tobacco use and protecting youth. In this blog post, I’ll explain why policy matters and how CounterAct Tobacco helps create healthier communities across Oklahoma.

Policy shapes the rules and laws that protect people and guide how communities function. Strong policies are essential because they can prevent problems, like youth access to tobacco before they happen. In Oklahoma, these policies play a key role in improving public health, reducing tobacco use, and creating safer environments for everyone.

The CounterAct Tobacco campaign focuses on policy change, including efforts like comprehensive tobacco retail licensing, to ensure tobacco products are sold responsibly. The campaign makes progress by educating lawmakers, partnering with communities, and lifting up youth voices. I believe comprehensive tobacco retail licensing can significantly improve public health by reducing youth access to tobacco and nicotine products. Since joining YAHL, I’ve been involved in learning about policy and supporting efforts that create meaningful change.

I care about this campaign because I want to see fewer people harmed by tobacco and fewer young people becoming addicted. My experience with YAHL has shown me that policy is powerful and that youth voices truly matter. Other students can build leadership skills and help create positive change by getting involved, which is why it’s important to support the policy efforts led by CounterAct Tobacco.

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By: Jackson Hoggatt, Hulbert High School