The U.S. senate recently approved tighter control over cigarettes and related tobacco products. This decision will empower federal health officials to strictly regulate smoking. The FDA is now expected to impose stricter controls over the manufacture and marketing of tobacco products, which kill about 50% of regular users. Health experts hailed this is a historic decision. About 20% of Americans are smokers. And, about 400,000 Americans die annually from smoking-related causes.
Regulation will Improve Cigarettes
The new regulation is expected to lower the smoking percentage of both youth and adults. The FDA would be able to lower nicotine content and chemicals in cigarettes. Tobacco flavorings, which lure first-time smokers, will also be banned. FDA standards are expected reduce the 4,000 toxins and 60 carcinogens in cigarettes.
Impact of the Anti-tobacco Law
The law will restrict advertising and marketing of tobacco-related products. Colorful store displays and ads will from now on be changed to black and white. From next year, tobacco advertising will be banned in the vicinity of playgrounds and schools. Cigarette makers will not be allowed to use terms such as “low tar” and “light”. From 2012, cigarette packages would perforce need to display graphic warnings.
Cigarettes to Cost More
Fees would be imposed on cigarette companies to pay for FDA expenses. This could raise the price of each cigarette pack by six cents. Previously, when the FDA tried to regulate nicotine, it was prevented by the Supreme Court. The new law also puts the onus on makers to demonstrate scientifically whether chewing tobacco and related products have health benefits. These products are generally considered less risky than cigarettes.
Opposition from Tobacco Lobbies
This new anti-tobacco law is considered historic, as it overcame stiff opposition from cigarette makers and lobbies representing tobacco-growing states. Also, the new regulations against tobacco advertising have irked advertisers, who say they violate the First Amendment protection for commercial speech. Therefore, legal experts expect a court challenge against the tobacco advertising regulations.
