Convenience stores across the U.S. are now permitted to take down federally mandated tobacco corrective statement signs, following the end of a 21-month compliance period that began on October 1, 2023.
The signage requirement stemmed from a U.S. Department of Justice consent order, part of a legal settlement with major tobacco manufacturers including Altria Group, Philip Morris USA, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., and ITG Brands LLC. The signs, which were displayed in stores participating in cigarette promotional programs, delivered government-approved messages related to the health impacts of smoking.
As of July 1, stores are no longer obligated to display the signage. Retailers may discard the signs, according to Thomas Briant, legal counsel for the National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO).
