Preempts all state court cases filed by converting tobacco claims into federal causes of action. Grants immunity for tobacco attorneys, advertisers, wholesalers, retailers, and distributors. Eliminates addiction or dependence claims. Prohibits use in court of evidence of reduced-risk tobacco products developed after date of enactment. Provides immunity for the parent corporations.
Permits claims only against the domestic tobacco subsidiaries.
All of these liability protections apply to all claims including those based on future misconduct. The recently released documents prove that the tobacco industry does not deserve any special protections. Big Tobacco should be held fully accountable for its actions. Congress cannot protect public health and the tobacco companies at the same time. The American Lung Association hopes Congress will listen to the American people and choose public health by eliminating all special protections from the McCain bill.