LOCAL COALITIONS - Frequently Asked Questions

Local coalitions are an essential part of the strategy for reaching the goal of a smoke-free Texas.  Coalitions at the local level focus on educating their communities about the dangers of secondhand smoke, and they work to influence their city councils to pass ordinances that establish comprehensive smoke-free policy at the local level. 

As more people across Texas begin to understand the dangers of secondhand smoke and realize the benefits of smoke-free public places in their own communities, the momentum for a smoke-free Texas will continue to build.  And when the time comes for smoke-free supporters to go to the Texas Legislature and advocate for a statewide smoke-free policy, the work of local coalitions will have established a network of seasoned advocates who are ready to act.

How long does it take to be successful at the local level?
What does a local coalition look like?
What is the usual structure of a local coalition?
How do we get started?

How long does it take to be successful at the local level?

The coalitions that have been successful in influencing local policy are those that have taken the time to build a well-planned campaign before attempting to take the issue to the city council.  Since smoke-free policy is something that affects almost everyone in one way or another, the issue always generates a vigorous debate.  Local coalitions must take the time to educate themselves, get organized, and build support before opening that community-wide debate.

The usual timeframe for a smoke-free coalition to have an effect on local policy is 12-24 months, with at least 6 months dedicated to becoming educated and getting organized. 

 
What does a local coalition look like?

To be most successful, a coalition should look like a cross-section of the community it is serving.  A broad, diverse coalition that represents the entire community will be more effective in demonstrating community-wide support for smoke-free policy. 

It should include medical professionals, representatives from health organizations, civic-minded citizens, business owners, public-relations professionals, youth, and anyone else who can help educate and influence the community. 

What is the usual structure of a local coalition?

Local coalitions have three primary functions: community education/media presence, grassroots organization, and strategic interaction with the city council.  Coalitions are best served by having a subcommittee for each of these functions.  It is also important to identify a spokesperson who can interact with the media and communicate the coalition's message.

How do we get started?

If you have the initial makeup of a smoke-free coalition and are ready to get organized, the best way to begin is by contacting the SmokeFree Texas Coalition by e-mailing us One of our coalition partners would be glad to send a representative to present a detailed overview of the coalition process, along with a number of helpful tools and resources. 

It is advisable to not contact the media or the City Council until the coalition is well organized and prepared to go public.