“Today marks an historic culmination of a more than 20 year journey to provide the FDA urgently needed regulatory control over the tobacco industry,” said Paul G. Billings , American Lung Association Vice President for Policy and Advocacy. “This long overdue legislation will protect kids and reduce the terrible human and financial burden caused by tobacco use in this country.”

Although differences between the Senate and the House versions of the bill will need to be resolved, thanks to the efforts of Senators Ted Kennedy (D-MA) and Christopher Dodd (D-CT), as well as Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-NV), Dick Durbin (D-IL) and other steadfast supporters, the bill is now closer than ever to becoming law. The American Lung Association recognizes these Senators and all others whose strong support for this legislation ensured its passage.

The act attests to the hard-won success and effectiveness of a growing bipartisan push to control and regulate tobacco companies by placing restrictions on their ability to target advertising to children, make misleading health claims and manipulate their products to make them more addictive. We hope the Congress will quickly send this legislation to President Obama’s desk.

About the American Lung Association: Now in our second century, the American Lung Association is the leading organization working to prevent lung disease and promote lung health. Lung disease death rates are currently increasing while other leading causes of death are declining. With your generous support, the American Lung Association is “Fighting for Air” through research, education and advocacy. For more information about the American Lung Association, a Charity Navigator Four Star Charity and holder of the Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide Seal, or to support the work it does, call 1-800-LUNG-USA (1-800-586-4872) or visit www.lungusa.org.