Virginia Secures $116.2 Million from Tobacco Firms Under Settlement Agreement
Virginia has received a substantial payment of $116.2 million from major tobacco companies, including Philip Morris USA, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco, and others, in accordance with the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA). This announcement was made by Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, who emphasized the state’s ongoing commitment to holding tobacco companies accountable and protecting public health.
"The $116 million payment serves as a reminder of Virginia’s vital role in enforcing accountability among tobacco companies," Miyares stated. He further noted that the MSA not only provides financial relief for healthcare costs associated with smoking-related ailments but also establishes robust protections to limit youth access to tobacco products.
Finalized in 1998, the MSA resulted from Virginia’s litigation against major tobacco firms for deceptive marketing practices and consumer protection law violations that have led to escalating healthcare expenses for the state. Since the inception of this agreement, Virginia has received approximately $3.5 billion, which supports healthcare funding for smoking-related illnesses.
In addition to financial compensation, the MSA imposes significant public health safeguards, including restrictions on marketing tobacco products to young people, prohibiting sales of tobacco-branded merchandise, and banning tobacco sponsorships of entertainment and sporting events.
Attorney General Miyares assured the public that his office remains vigilant in enforcing the terms of the MSA to ensure compliance from tobacco companies with both state and federal regulations. The annual payments under the agreement are crucial for mitigating the financial burden of tobacco-related healthcare costs on the state.
For more information on Virginia’s ongoing public health initiatives and the role of the MSA, visit the Attorney General’s office website.
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