Every day nearly 4,000 kids under 18 try their first cigarette and 1,000 kids under 18 become daily smokers. Many of these kids will become addicted before they are old enough to understand the risks and will ultimately die too young of tobacco-related diseases. FDA is working to protect the health of America’s children and ultimately reduce the burden of illness and death caused by tobacco use.

Regulations Restricting the Sale and Distribution of Cigarettes and Smokeless Tobacco to Protect Children and Adolescents

FDA is issuing a final rule that contains a broad set of federal requirements designed to significantly curb access to and the appeal of cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products to children and adolescents in the United States.

The new rule became effective on June 22, 2010, and has the force and effect of law. Among other things, the rule:

• Prohibits the sale of cigarettes or smokeless tobacco to people younger than 18,
• Prohibits the sale of cigarette packages with less than 20 cigarettes,
• Prohibits distribution of free samples of cigarettes,
• Restricts distribution of free samples of smokeless tobacco, and
• Prohibits tobacco brand name sponsorship of any athletic, musical or other social or cultural events.