State attorneys general (AGs), charged with enforcing the laws of their states, have both the motivation and authority to help promote and enforce public health policy. Not only do they mediate consumer complaints and investigate possible violations of the law, but they can also bring litigation that highlights the need for policy change or gaps in regulatory protection.

This series of fact sheets from NPLAN, in partnership with the Public Health Law Center at William Mitchell College of Law, explains how state AGs can serve as allies in efforts to limit junk food marketing to children, and how researchers and advocates can work with state AGs’ offices to advance their public health goals.

While these fact sheets focus on how state AGs can act to curb childhood obesity by addressing problematic food and beverage marketing practices, the information about AGs’ authority and activities can be applied to a range of public health issues, from tobacco control to workplace safety to health care fraud.

Note: NPLAN has also developed a separate fact sheet on how to work with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to help enforce consumer protection laws. See How to Help Enforce Federal Regulations Limiting Deceptive or Unfair Marketing.