New FDA Rule Protects Kids
from Tobacco
On March 19, 2010

The FDA Center for Tobacco Products will publish a new rule that aims to protect kids from tobacco addiction and premature death from tobacco use.
The new rule becomes effective June 22, 2010 and prohibits the sale, distribution, and marketing of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco to youth, including:
Sale and Distribution Regulations

* Prohibits the sale of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to people younger than 18.

* Prohibits the sale of cigarette packages with fewer than 20 cigarettes.

* Prohibits the sale of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco in vending machines, self-service displays, or other impersonal modes of sales, except in very limited situations.

* Restricts free samples of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco products.
Marketing Regulations

* Prohibits tobacco brand name sponsorship of any athletic, musical, or other social or cultural event, or any team or entry in those events.

* Prohibits gifts or other items in exchange for buying cigarettes or smokeless tobacco products.

* Requires that audio ads use only words with no music or sound effects.

* Prohibits the sale or distribution of items, such as hats and tee shirts, with tobacco brands or logos.

How You Can Help

* Spread the word: Share this information through your email distribution lists, newsletters, Websites, and other communication channels.

* Show your support: Place the “Protecting Kids from Tobacco”
social media badges and buttons on your Web site, Facebook page, MySpace page, or in your blog to share information about these new regulations.

* Submit your data: FDA is also publishing an advance notice of proposed rulemaking that requests information from the field on the regulation of outdoor advertising of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

For more information, visit: http://www.fda.gov/protectingkidsfromtobacco