Attorney General creates new Tobacco Enforcement Unit

FROM THE OFFICE OF THE ATTORNEY GENERAL

July 22, 2008

Attorney General Steve Six announced today the formation of a new Tobacco Enforcement Unit within the Office of Attorney General.

"One of my priorities since taking office has been to focus the office's resources on issues that are of great concern to the people of Kansas," Six said. "The Tobacco Enforcement Unit will work to prevent the sale of tobacco to minors, enforce terms of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) and investigate unlawful violations of tobacco related statutes."

Six secured funding for the unit in the 2008 legislative session. The unit has already accomplished a significant legislative achievement, working with the Fire Marshal's office to enact ‘Fire Safe Cigarettes' legislation (SB 178) in Kansas.

"Creation of this unit demonstrates my commitment to a proactive approach to enforcing the laws related to the sale and regulation of tobacco," Six said. "Whether it is protecting the health of Kansas youth or reducing the number of cigarette-related fire deaths in Kansas, this unit will be given the important responsibility of safeguarding the interests of Kansas citizens."

In 1998, the Kansas Attorney General's Office, along with 45 other states, signed the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) with the four largest tobacco companies in the United States to settle state suits to recover billions of dollars in costs associated with treating smoking-related illnesses. Each year, Kansas receives an annual payment from the MSA.