DALLAS, November 10, 2022 — Nancy Brown, CEO of the American Heart Association, which is devoted to a world of healthier lives for all, issued the following statement today in response to a lawsuit filed by R.J. Reynolds against California's new law ending the sale of most flavored tobacco products.

“This lawsuit demonstrates the tobacco industry’s desperation to continue targeting our children and communities with flavored products. Following repeated defeats in communities throughout California, in the state legislature and on a statewide ballot this week, tobacco companies now hope to use the courts to once again oppose the will of the overwhelming majority of voters who approved Prop. 31 to protect their families from the industry’s predatory practices.

"The industry’s relentless opposition to this and other effective public health measures that prevent addiction to its dangerous products expose the hypocrisy of its lofty rhetoric about transforming the future of tobacco use.”

The American Heart Association and its grassroots advocates in California strongly supported Proposition 31, which voters approved this week by a wide margin. The initiative's passage upheld a state law restricting the sale of most flavored tobacco products passed by the state legislature and signed by the governor in 2020.

 

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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: 214-706-1173

Shelly Hogan: 214-706-1782 or 512-689-0869; shelly.hogan@heart.org

Steve Weiss: 202-607-0911; steve.weiss@heart.org

 

For Public Inquiries: 1-800-AHA-USA1 (242-8721)

heart.org and stroke.org