FDA forms committee to implement new tobacco law
27 Aug 2009
The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) yesterday announced the formation of the Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee (TPSAC) for implementing the family smoking prevention and tobacco control act.
On 22 June, US president Barack Obama had signed a legislation giving the FDA regulatory authority over tobacco products, and initiated a bill giving the government historic powers to curb cigarette makers, declaring the move emblematic of the change he is bringing to Washington (See: Obama to curb smoking by youth; signs historic tobacco law).
"I know, I was one of these teenagers, and so I know how difficult it can be to break this habit when it's been with you for a long time," Obama said while signing the law.
Obama has fought a public battle to give up smoking, and promised his wife he would quit when he ran for president -- but he has admitted succumbing to the occasional cigarette several times since.
At that time, tobacco industry had hailed the decision, and termed it as a historic move.
"We believe a comprehensive regulatory framework, implemented thoughtfully, can provide significant benefits to adult consumers," said Michael E Szymanczyk, Altria Group's chairman and CEO.