Bill To Regulate Tobacco Clears House

Press Release

Bill To Regulate Tobacco Clears House

After introducing bipartisan legislation to help Americans quit smoking, U.S. Rep. Diana DeGette, Vice Chair of the Committee on Energy and Commerce, joined her colleagues in the House of Representatives today in passing H.R. 1256, The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act with strong bipartisan support, 298 to 112. This legislation gives the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority to regulate tobacco. U.S. Rep. DeGette also secured a provision in the bill that requires a study and report to better inform Congress about public health implications of the tobacco purchase age.

"Tobacco is one of the deadliest products sold legally," said U.S. Rep. DeGette, a cosponsor of the legislation. "The tobacco industry has a long history of marketing its products to kids. I've supported FDA regulation of tobacco products for years because it will improve health and save lives. We must stay focused on stopping tobacco companies from hooking a new generation on their deadly products."

The Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act is supported by over 1,000 public health, faith, and other organizations from around the country, including the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, American Heart Association, American Lung Association, and Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids.

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