R.J. Reynolds sues over FDA act to regulate cigarette makers, claims speech violated

R.J. Reynolds sues over new tobacco law

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — R.J. Reynolds, seller of Camel cigarettes, and some other tobacco makers have filed a lawsuit saying their free-speech rights have been violated by a new tobacco law.

The law gives the U.S. Food and Drug Administration the authority to regulate tobacoo. It took effect in June.

Reynolds says the act has several provisions restricting or banning truthful speech.

Part of the FDA bill is designed to regulate the marketing of cigarettes. Reynolds says it seeks to protect its right to communicate with adult consumers.

R.J. Reynolds is the nation’s second-biggest cigarette maker behind Philip Morris USA, which sells Marlboro cigarettes. Reynolds has opposed the bill for years as Philip Morris has supported it.