Supreme Court Denies Challenge to Graphic Cigarette Warnings
Court Rejects Tobacco Company’s Appeal
The Supreme Court has declined to hear a challenge to a federal requirement that cigarette packages and advertising include graphic images demonstrating the effects of smoking. In a brief written order handed down Monday, the court denied the appeal from tobacco company R.J. Reynolds.
Background
The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals had previously found that the warnings do not violate the First Amendment. The warnings include pictures of smoke-damaged lungs, feet blackened by diminished blood flow, and a picture of a woman with a large growth on her neck with the caption "WARNING: Smoking causes head and neck cancer."
R.J. Reynolds’ Arguments
R.J. Reynolds argued that the final image, for example, was misleading because a patient would likely go to the doctor before a growth reached that size. The company claimed that the image was intentionally frightening and could be harmful to viewers.
FDA’s Response
The Food and Drug Administration countered that all the pictures reflect undisputed risks of smoking. The FDA emphasized that the warnings are designed to provide accurate and essential information to the public about the dangers of smoking.
Global Efforts
Nearly 120 countries around the world have adopted larger, graphic warning labels. Studies from these countries suggest that image-based labels are more effective than text warnings at publicizing smoking risks and encouraging smokers to quit. The United States has not updated its labels since 1984.
Next Steps
It’s not clear when new labels might appear. Some legal claims remain, and the FDA has said it doesn’t plan to enforce any new requirements until at least December 2025.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s decision is a significant victory for public health advocates who have been pushing for stronger warnings on cigarette packaging. The use of graphic images has been shown to be an effective way to educate the public about the dangers of smoking and to encourage smokers to quit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the graphic warnings on cigarette packaging?
A: The warnings include pictures of smoke-damaged lungs, feet blackened by diminished blood flow, and a picture of a woman with a large growth on her neck with the caption "WARNING: Smoking causes head and neck cancer."
Q: Why did R.J. Reynolds challenge the graphic warnings?
A: R.J. Reynolds argued that the warnings were misleading and could be harmful to viewers.
Q: What is the impact of the Supreme Court’s decision?
A: The decision means that the graphic warnings will remain in place, providing important information to the public about the dangers of smoking.
Q: When will new labels appear?
A: It’s not clear when new labels might appear. Some legal claims remain, and the FDA has said it doesn’t plan to enforce any new requirements until at least December 2025.
