Connecticut Attorney General's Office

Press Release

Attorney General's Statement On Historic Vote To Regulate Tobacco

June 11, 2009

"For more than 10 years we have helped lead states in the struggle for FDA regulation of tobacco products -- coming closest in our first settlement with Big Tobacco that unfortunately Congress never approved. Now the federal government will be a partner, rather than an obstacle.

"In the most significant public health step of this century and decades before, the federal government will now have historic power to stem and stop the worst ingredients and addictive impacts of tobacco. The FDA must now act promptly and aggressively to control amounts of nicotine and carcinogens, and constrict deceptive marketing practices.

"Vigilance is no less vital. As we have done since we helped lead the lawsuit against Big Tobacco, we will continue the fight against smoking -- which continues to addict and kill our citizens, and cost hundreds of millions in health expenses to our taxpayers every year.

"Connecticut can be proud that Sen. Christopher Dodd helped to lead this battle in Congress, fighting not only for Connecticut, but our entire nation."