Tobacco News and Updates: Spring 2023
Vaping Giant NJOY Has a New Owner
Marlboro maker Altria Group Inc. recently purchased NJOY Holdings Inc. for more than $2.5 billion. Over the past several years, Altria has spent tens of billions of dollars trying to keep up with the times and pivot into the e-cigarette market. However, after a disastrous investment with the former leader of the vape world, JUUL, the cigarette brand is at it again with a desperate attempt to stay relevant.
Oklahoma County Reaches a Settlement With JUUL
In February, Oklahoma County Commissioners approved a proposal to settle litigation against JUUL for marketing nicotine products to teens. Oklahoma County will receive over $400,000 — an amount determined by the number of school-age children living within each participating jurisdiction. Do these funds make up for the years of harmful marketing our youth have already endured?
The Majority of Americans Support Tobacco Bans
A new survey conducted by the CDC revealed that the majority of U.S. adults support banning menthol cigarettes and all other tobacco products. The policies in question aim to prevent initiation, promote quitting and reduce tobacco-related health disparities. These findings can help drive federal, state and local efforts to promote long-term change.
Is a Smokefree Future in the Cards for Bars and Restaurants?
Oklahoma remains one of only two U.S. states that lack comprehensive clean air laws and prohibit communities from passing tobacco control measures at the local level. Bars, restaurants and casinos employ more than 208,000 Oklahomans — most of whom have to deal with secondhand smoke while on the clock. However, with more and more bar owners and musicians taking a stand, a smokefree future may be closer than we think. Will the actions of locally owned establishments finally clear the air in Oklahoma?
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