Other anti-smoking groups, meanwhile, agreed the deal is not perfect, but said the time has come to accept its passage. Now, we need to make sure the money is not diverted for other programs and is invested and preserved for the next 25 years. Governor Whitman has strongly suggested the money be earmarked for public health programs. Some lawmakers say the cash could be applied to other projects, such as school construction. In exchange, the tobacco industry will spend big on a study on how to curb teen smoking.
Companies are also subject to individual and class-action lawsuits in the future.
To finance the settlement, cigarette prices are expected to rise 35 cents to 40 cents a pack to pay for the settlement. Lawyers for the state say the industry's concessions would have been inconceivable in a lawsuit. You'll see Joe Camel erased from all the stores. This will start to protect our children now. Bergen Record Corp.