October 6, 2008 - Today’s case is extremely important in putting tobacco companies on notice that the public won’t stand for their con-artist tactics promoting light and low-tar cigarettes.  Through these deceptive marketing practices, Philip Morris hoodwinked consumers with false advertisements of products that are just as deadly as regular cigarettes. This deception was part of a carefully orchestrated plan initiated by Philip Morris and other tobacco companies designed to increase cigarette sales and profits.  With Marlboro Lights the number one selling cigarette brand in America, we continue to witness the devastating toll of Philip Morris’ consumer fraud on the public.  Nearly 438,000 Americans die each year from tobacco-related disease and more than a third of these deaths are related to heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases.  We urge the high court to give consumers the ability to hold the tobacco industry accountable and eliminate marketing tactics that put the health of all Americans at risk. 

For more information, contact Suzanne Ffolkes at (202) 785-7929.