Philip Morris International’s U.S. businesses have launched the “Invested in Responsibility” campaign to prevent youth access to nicotine products. The company outlined a 10-point plan aimed at reducing underage use, which includes providing training for retailers, enhancing ID-check technology, and ensuring marketing targets adults rather than minors.
A spokesperson for PMI U.S. stated, “No one under the age of 21 should use such products, period. That’s why we recently launched our new ‘Invested in Responsibility’ campaign.”
The company emphasized that effective prevention requires collaboration among manufacturers, retailers, lawmakers, and community leaders. PMI U.S. recognized Texas retailers for implementing measures such as checking IDs for those appearing under 30 and refusing straw purchases.
“When companies like PMI U.S. work directly with retailers, it strengthens everyone’s efforts. It also shows that industry leaders and brick-and-mortar stores are serious about doing the right thing and invested in improving and strengthening local communities,” the statement read.
PMI U.S. highlighted that approximately 28 million adults nationwide continue to smoke cigarettes and may seek less harmful alternatives. The company noted concerns over laws that treat all nicotine products similarly, including flavor bans and tax increases on smoke-free products.
“Scientifically-substantiated, smoke-free products offer less risky options to these legal age adult smokers, but all too often, new laws and restrictions treat all nicotine products the same,” PMI U.S. said.
The approach promoted by PMI U.S. seeks to balance preventing youth access with maintaining options for adults trying to quit smoking traditional cigarettes: “It’s an approach backed by sound science, not fear and speculation.”
Retailers in Austin and across Texas were acknowledged for their ongoing efforts to prevent youth access to nicotine while supporting adult smokers who wish to switch from cigarettes. PMI U.S. stated its intention to continue working with these partners and support policies aimed at protecting young people while allowing adults better choices.
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