12th Annual Policy Summit: Exploring Science-Based Approaches to Tobacco Harm Reduction

Thursday, November 13 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | UC Student and Policy Center

The California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce invites you to join us for the 12th Annual Policy Summit, where policymakers, health experts, and industry leaders will gather to discuss one of today’s most complex and pressing public health topics: tobacco and nicotine harm reduction.

This year’s focus, Science, Regulation, and the Future of Harm Reduction, will explore how evidence-based strategies and regulatory frameworks can shape effective harm-reduction policy. With other nations embracing risk-reduction models, this conversation will examine how California can pursue balanced, data-driven solutions that both protect public health and encourage innovation and economic stability.

Featured Panelists

Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen | Assembly District 10

Elected in 2022 as the first AAPI woman legislator representing the Sacramento region, Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen brings a deep commitment to advancing equity and access for all Californians. A former Executive Director of Asian Resources, Inc. and past Elk Grove City Councilmember, Nguyen’s legislative work focuses on community empowerment, child care affordability, and social services for underserved populations.

In the current legislative session, she has championed key budget wins, including $30 million for Special Olympics California and $60 million for California Food Banks. She serves on several key Assembly Committees and as Vice Chair of the AAPI Legislative Caucus.

Assemblymember Joe Patterson | Assembly District 5

Representing Placer and El Dorado Counties, Assemblymember Joe Patterson was elected in 2022 following his service as a Rocklin City Councilmember and Mayor. A small business owner and lifelong Californian, Patterson brings both public- and private-sector experience to his role in the Legislature.

He is passionate about building a strong business climate and protecting local communities—grounded in practical leadership that supports families and small businesses across his district.

Dr. Pritika Kumar | Philip Morris International

Dr. Pritika Kumar is a public health scientist with over 25 years of experience in harm reduction, specializing in tobacco and substance use-related disparities. As a Scientific Engagement Lead at Philip Morris International, she oversees stakeholder engagement on smoke-free and reduced-risk tobacco and nicotine products in the U.S. market.

Dr. Kumar has a robust background in public health programs, policy, and research, having worked with leading institutions such as the United Nations, World Bank, integrated health systems, academia, and policy think tanks. She completed her mental health and public health graduate training in India and at New York University, Johns Hopkins University, and Harvard University.

Dr. Jeffrey Singer | Cato Institute

Dr. Jeffrey Singer is a Senior Fellow at the Cato Institute, President Emeritus of Valley Surgical Clinics, and a nationally recognized voice on health care policy and drug reform. With over 35 years in surgical practice, Dr. Singer writes and speaks extensively on evidence-based health policies and the unintended consequences of prohibition. He is also a Visiting Fellow at the Goldwater Institute and serves on the Board of Scientific Advisors of the American Council on Science and Health.

Moderator

Jazmine Advincula | Director of Public Policy, CalAsian Chamber

As the Director of Public Policy for the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, Jazmine Alop Advincula leads statewide advocacy efforts focused on inclusive economic growth and small business empowerment. A Sacramento native and experienced policy strategist, she brings a collaborative, community-centered approach to every discussion. Advincula has previously led initiatives across supply chain policy, workforce development, and economic mobility, and will guide this important conversation on balancing innovation and public health priorities.

Join the Conversation

Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with leading voices in science, regulation, and public policy as we discuss pathways for California to advance responsible, evidence-based harm reduction strategies. 

Following the panel, guests are invited to join us for a networking reception with light refreshments. This is a great opportunity to continue the conversation, connect with panelists and peers, and engage with leaders across sectors who are shaping the future of public health and policy in California.

Date: Thursday, November 13, 2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Location: UC Student and Policy Center

Register today to reserve your spot and be part of the dialogue shaping California’s public health future.

This year’s Policy Summit is made possible through the generous support of our sponsors: Philip Morris International, Exxon Mobil, McDonald’s, Charter Communications, T-Mobile, Coca-Cola, Alaska Airlines, and PG&E.