Sam Schwall 1st period: 15 Years Later Where Did All The Cigarette Money Go

I read the article, 15 Years Later Where Did All The Cigarette Money Go, by the NPR staff. This story looks at the major settlement between state governments and tobacco companies and how this money is actually being put to use. Some states have made the choice to use the settlement directly for smoking-related programs like classes to stop and education against tobacco. Government officials claim that while smoking is a personal decision, tobacco companies are now responsible for the health issues caused. While these programs have reduced more than 50 percent of teen smoking, many states use this money for tax relief and agriculture.

The purpose of this article is to look back on the tobacco lawsuits of the 90’s and where our nation stands on the issue today. I believe that it would make the most sense to use this money against tobacco use as these programs have been proven successful. Before reading this I was aware of these lawsuits but never considered how the money is being used. I found this to be a very interesting story and one that I will need to follow.

http://www.npr.org/2013/10/13/233449505/15-years-later-where-did-all-the-cigarette-money-go