Restricting tobacco industry lobbying

The 1998 general agreement between US tobacco producers and the US state authorities restricts industry lobbying on tobacco control laws. Tobacco companies will be prohibited from opposing proposed state or local laws or administrative rules which are intended to limit youth access to and consumption off tobacco products. The industry must require its lobbyists to certify in writing they have reviewed and will fully comply with settlement terms including disclosure of financial contributions regarding lobbying activities and new corporate culture principles. In states without laws regarding financial disclosure of lobbying, the agreement requires the disclosure of lobbying costs to the state Attorney General. The agreement prohibits lobbyists from supporting or opposing state, federal or local laws or actions without authorization of the companies. The agreement further prohibits the industry from lobbying for the diversion of settlement money to non-tobacco or non-health related uses or legislation which would eliminate or diminish state rights under the settlement.