The new Health Code amendment would require tobacco retailers to put graphic warnings in their stores
Jump to full article: WPIX-TV (New York, NY), 2009-06-25
Author: SHELLEY NG
Intro: The Board of Health wants to introduce a new anti-smoking amendment, but they wants the the public's opinion first.
New Yorkers are being called upon to give their opinion in a public hearing on July 30 on a new Health Code amendment that would put graphic anti-smoking warnings wherever tobacco products are sold. The warnings would include images depicting the adverse health effects of smoking and information on how to quit.
The measure, which is expected to be voted on in September, would require tobacco retailers to display these "point-of-sale warnings and cessations messages" wherever tobacco products are displayed and at the point of purchase is made, such as a cash register.
According to the Health Department, these displays will force the customer to see the health effects of smoking and visually contemplate their tobacco purchase. They say the signage also promotes a greater understanding of the toll tobacco takes on the body and encourage current smokers to quit.
"While the tobacco industry spends billions of dollars every year to glamorize smoking, we will show New Yorkers the harsh realities," Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley, stated, "These warning signs will help persuade smokers to quit and show children why they shouldn't start smoking."
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Quotes from this article:
While the tobacco industry spends billions of dollars every year to glamorize smoking, we will show New Yorkers the harsh realities. These warning signs will help persuade smokers to quit and show children why they shouldn't start smoking.
NYC Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas Farley, on the Board of Health proposal to put graphic anti-smoking warnings wherever tobacco products are sold.
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