Major New Tobacco Rules Take Effect This Week

Restrictions on cigarette branding and new labeling requirements go into effect June 22 — part of the new federal Tobacco Control Act — HealthDay News reported June 17.

As of Tuesday, cigarettes may no longer be branded as “light,” “mild,” or “low”: cigarette companies are switching to color names instead to differentiate their brands. Cigarette packs also will have larger and more detailed warning labels, and cigarette companies will be barred from sponsoring cultural or sporting events.

Sales of tobacco products to anyone under age 18 will now be prohibited under federal law, as well, and cigarette vending machines will be limited to locations frequented only by adults.