Tobacco

Tobacco

Tobacco products are widely known to be both poisonous and highly addictive. By this point the heavy regulation and taxation of these products is practically non-controversial. But the first national tobacco regulations were met with fierce opposition, and the legal and political battles against the industry raged until the end of the 20th century. 

Cry Wolf Quotes

If there is to be a caution notice….It should be stated in a way which reflects the lack of definitive clinical and laboratory scientific evidence on the relationship between smoking and health.

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Bowman Gray Jr., chairman of R. J. Reynolds’ board.

These bills, if enacted, will have a profound impact upon this great industry. Unwise legislation in this field could produce repercussions which would be felt throughout the country’s economy. I am confident that the Congress will exercise great care before taking any action which would seriously disrupt this important industry….We are strongly opposed to these bills. We do not believe that any governmental action is necessary or called for with respect to cigarette advertising or labeling.

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Bowman Gray Jr., chairman of R. J. Reynolds’ board.

With respect to cigarettes, cautionary labeling cannot be anticipated to serve the public interest with any particular degree of success. The health hazards of excessive smoking have been well-publicized for more than ten years and are common knowledge…

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Letter from Dr. F.J.L. Blasingame, AMA Executive Vice President, to the FTC’s division of trade regulation rules.