The Health District is offering a new 6-week Step Free from Tobacco class that includes free nicotine replacement products.

The class meets Wednesday evenings, 6 – 7:30 p.m., beginning March 12. Classes will be held at the Health District office at 120 Bristlecone Drive in north Fort Collins.

A certified tobacco treatment specialist will help class participants develop a personalized plan that maximizes their chances of successfully quitting tobacco use. The cost for the Step Free from Tobacco class is $100, although residents of the Health District (northern Larimer County) are eligible for reduced fees as low as $10, depending on income. All class participants receive free nicotine replacement products (patches, gum or lozenges).

Starting in 2014, health insurers in Colorado can charge tobacco users up to 15% more for premiums. The so-called “tobacco surcharge” allowed under the Affordable Care Act applies to people who have used tobacco (smoke or chew) four or more times per week in the past six months. Now is a good time for people to work toward going smoke-free in preparation for new or renewed insurance coverage in 2015.

For more information or to register for the class, call 224-5209. More information is available at www.healthdistrict.org/quitsmoking.