SACRAMENTO, Dec. 21, 2022 — Starting today, almost all flavored tobacco products will be off the market in California. This marks a landmark step in the battle against the tobacco industry’s cynical business model that markets candy flavored tobacco products to kids and communities of color. 

More than two years ago, the Legislature overwhelmingly passed and Governor Gavin Newsom signed into law a measure ending the sale of flavored tobacco products. Big Tobacco sued, schemed and delayed, but Californians prevailed, voting to protect our next generation from a lifetime of addiction and preventable disease.

The impact will be felt immediately across our most populous state. Tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death in California, where tobacco-related diseases kill 40,000 people every year. More than 2 million middle and high school students nationwide use e-cigarettes, and of all kids who become new smokers each year, almost a third will eventually die from it. By removing these products from the market, lives will be saved and the likelihood that kids will ever pick up a tobacco product will be significantly reduced.  

The American Heart Association, the leading voluntary health organization focused on heart and brain health for all, will continue to support policies that will bring about the Tobacco Endgame and address this leading cause of preventable disease and death.

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About the American Heart Association
The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities. Through collaboration with numerous organizations, and powered by millions of volunteers, we fund innovative research, advocate for the public’s health and share lifesaving resources. The Dallas-based organization has been a leading source of health information for nearly a century. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, Twitter or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1. 

For media inquiries:
Vibhuti Gupta vibhuti.gupta@heart.org or 916-892-6442