Prop. 99 | Organization | Contact TCS

Organization of the Tobacco Control Section

Administrative and Contract Support Unit

The Administrative and Contract Support Unit (ACSU) monitors the fiscal and contractual aspect of each funded contract for the California Tobacco Control Section. The ACSU is responsible for ensuring that contractors adhere to the specific administrative and budget requirements of their contracts.

Evaluation Unit

The Evaluation Unit’s (EU) main function is to perform surveillance, evaluation and dissemination. This results in formative feedback to the California Tobacco Control Program and furnishes data that can demonstrate the program’s impact and effectiveness. Research Scientists provide input to the Local Programs Unit staff on evaluation-related matters, evaluate statewide efforts including the media campaign and tobacco use prevention education in schools and analyze tobacco-related information using multiple data sources.

Library & Information Services Unit

The Library & Information Services Unit (LISU) facilitates information management and dissemination amongst all units within the Tobacco Control Section. By managing information technology, overseeing the development and management of all TCS websites, presenting information in graphical formats, offering a full-service library, and managing the DHS publications, LISU improves access to information resources for all members of TCS.

Media Campaign Unit

The Media Campaign Unit (MCU) administers the statewide media campaign. The media campaign consists of paid radio, television, billboard and print advertising, as well as public relations for the general market and ethnic communities. To reach California’s diverse communities and cultures, the campaign supplements the general market advertising with in-language and culturally relevant advertising directed toward Hispanic/Latinos, Asians and Pacific Islanders, American Indians, and African Americans. The media campaign continues to target both adults and youth, with a focus on countering pro-tobacco influences, reducing exposure to secondhand smoke, reducing the appeal and availability of tobacco to youth, and supporting the Smokers’ Helpline, which provides one-on-one counseling in multiple languages for smokers who want to quit.

Local Programs Unit

The CDHS/TCS Local Programs Unit (LPU) oversees the community-based component of the Tobacco Control Program. LPU staff, in concert with the Administrative and Contract Support staff, conduct procurement processes including writing the Request for Applications, facilitating peer reviews and negotiating contracts. Staff also provide technical assistance and consultation to TCS-funded projects, facilitate workgroups, coordinate educational campaigns, analyze proposed legislation, and respond to correspondence from constituents.

Click here to find a local program near you.

Strategic Planning and Policy Unit

The Strategic Planning and Policy Unit (SPPU) formulates TCS policy and spearheads strategic planning on a variety of tobacco-related issues. The PPPD Unit coordinates the overall bill analysis process and prepares legislative concepts and proposals. This Unit also provides guidance to Local Programs Unit during bill analysis season, and where appropriate, participates in the planning and implementation of campaigns and trainings concerning the Tobacco Control Program.

Support Staff

The Support Staff Unit (SSU) oversees the day-to-day operations that support all other units in the Tobacco Control Section.