Tobacco Activist Corr Approved for HHS Deputy’s Job

William Corr, formerly the head of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids (CTFK), has been confirmed as the deputy secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) by unanimous consent of the U.S. Senate, the Wall Street Journal reported May 7.

In addition to his work as an antismoking lobbyist and industry critic, Corr’s resume includes past jobs working for members of Congress and a stint as chief of staff at HHS during the Clinton administration.

Corr was recently the subject of some criticism from conservatives who questioned his nomination in light of President Obama’s rules about hiring former lobbyists, and CTFK’s past receipt of donations from the pharmaceutical industry. Administration officials said Corr would not work on tobacco issues in his federal job.

“Bill Corr’s policy expertise and management experience will be invaluable as we work together to manage the Department and pass and implement comprehensive health reform,” said HHS Secretary Kathleen Sebelius, whose nomination also was recently approved by the Senate.