|
| |
         | "Bill Clinton has shown more guts on this issue of tobacco, children and health than any president in the history of the country." Joseph Califano, President Clinton understands the danger tobacco use poses to the health of our children, and he has taken bold action on this pressing public health concern. First-Ever Plan to Protect Our Children from Tobacco. On August 10, 1995, President Clinton announced executive action to protect our nation's young people from the dangers of tobacco by sharply restricting the advertising, promotion, distribution, and marketing of cigarettes to teenagers. The President authorized the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to initiate a broad series of steps all designed to stop sales and marketing of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco to children. Strong FDA Action. One year later, on August 23, 1996, the President's program was launched with the unveiling of the FDA final rule on tobacco and children. The FDA's actions were aimed at reducing the appeal of tobacco products to teenagers. Cracking Down on Youth Access to Tobacco. On February 28, 1997, the FDA made 18 the minimum age to purchase tobacco products nationwide and required photo I.D.s for anyone under the age of 27. Courts Affirm the Clinton Administration's Efforts To Protect Our Children from Tobacco. On April 25, 1997, a Federal District Court in North Carolina affirmed the FDA's authority to regulate tobacco as a drug and restrict children's access to tobacco products. Protecting Federal Employees. On July 31, 1997, President Clinton announced an executive order to protect federal employees from environmental tobacco smoke. This executive order banned smoking in federal Executive Branch facilities.
President and First Lady | Vice President and Mrs. Gore |