Consensus for tobacco policy among former state legislators using the policy Delphi method

Area of Science:

• Public Health Policy
• Health Behavior Research
• Legislative Studies

Background:

• Building consensus on tobacco control policies is crucial for public health.
• Legislators' perspectives significantly influence policy adoption.
• Novel methods are needed to facilitate agreement on complex public health issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel policy Delphi method for achieving consensus among legislators regarding tobacco control and farming policies.
• To assess the feasibility and effectiveness of a face-to-face, two-round policy Delphi approach.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study employed a two-round, face-to-face policy Delphi method.
• Thirty former Kentucky state legislators participated (60% participation rate).
• Consensus was measured on tobacco control and tobacco farming policies.

Main Results:

• Former legislators demonstrated greater-than-expected support for tobacco control measures.
• A significant increase in consensus was observed, with 43% agreement reached on previously contentious items after the second round.
• Exposure to new information increased support for workplace smoking restrictions, limitations on tobacco promotion, and excise tax increases.

Conclusions:

• The policy Delphi method is a viable strategy for building consensus on tobacco control and farming policies among state legislators.
• Tobacco control advocates can utilize this method with policymakers in various sectors to foster agreement on public health initiatives.