Tobacco Industry Lobbyists Influence State Legislatures Across America

Regulations by 2FIRSTS.ai
May.07.2024
Tobacco Industry Lobbyists Influence State Legislatures Across America
Tobacco industry lobbyists infiltrate state legislatures across U.S., with at least 950 representatives pushing for their interests.

According to a recent report by Statnews, the anti-smoking advocacy group Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has found that lobbyists from the tobacco industry have infiltrated state legislatures from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania to Tallahassee, Florida.

 

The latest version of the "Tobacco Industry Lobbyists and Lobbying Firm Registration Tracking Report" released by the organization states that there are now at least 950 lobbyists representing cigarette, e-cigarette, and snuff companies lobbying in state legislatures across the country. From 2023 to 2024, the number of lobbying registrations related to tobacco companies has increased by over 10%.

 

This data may be underestimated because ASH's overall statistics are based on publicly available lobbying registration data, and some states only require lobbying firms, not individual lobbyists, to register.

 

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn


Notice

1.  This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2.  The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3.  This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4.  Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

 

Copyright

 

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

 

AI Assistance Disclaimer

 

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Alan Zhao of 2Firsts: Combustibles Still Hold Strategic Value — JTI Offers New Insight into Global Tobacco Transition
Alan Zhao of 2Firsts: Combustibles Still Hold Strategic Value — JTI Offers New Insight into Global Tobacco Transition
As reduced-risk products emerge as the industry’s inevitable future, the question of how to transition has become a defining challenge for tobacco companies. In recent years, JTI has continued to invest in the combustible segment while gradually advancing its next-generation products — a path distinct from that of PMI and BAT, yet one that offers valuable insights for other legacy tobacco companies around the world.
Sep.29
Product | HQD launches the new HQD GO in the U.S., featuring three power levels and a ~$30 price tag.
Product | HQD launches the new HQD GO in the U.S., featuring three power levels and a ~$30 price tag.
HQD has listed the disposable HQD GO on its official site and U.S. channels. The device touts 35,000 puffs, three power levels with adjustable airflow, and a 30 mg/ml nicotine strength. On U.S. retail websites, it’s priced at about $29.99.
Oct.24 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Kentucky to Require Tobacco and Vape Retailers to Be Licensed Starting January 2026
Kentucky to Require Tobacco and Vape Retailers to Be Licensed Starting January 2026
The Kentucky Public Protection Cabinet has reminded all businesses selling tobacco, nicotine, and vapor products that they must be licensed by the Kentucky Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) by January 1, 2026. The requirement stems from Senate Bill 100, signed into law by Governor Andy Beshear on March 24, 2025, aimed at strengthening youth protection and enforcing compliance against unlicensed sales.
Nov.17 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Cambodia MoT warns: Businesses using vaping and shisha  will have their operating licences revoked
Cambodia MoT warns: Businesses using vaping and shisha will have their operating licences revoked
Cambodia’s Ministry of Tourism has issued a new directive prohibiting all tourism service establishments from possessing, selling, importing, storing, or advertising e-cigarettes and shisha-related products. Violators will face written warnings, suspension of operations, or even revocation of their tourism business licenses. The measure is part of a nationwide ban enacted under Sub-Decree No. 02 BB, issued by the Royal Government on October 21.
Nov.21 by 2FIRSTS.ai
British American Tobacco France: A complete ban on tobacco-free nicotine pouches could drive the expansion of the black market
British American Tobacco France: A complete ban on tobacco-free nicotine pouches could drive the expansion of the black market
British American Tobacco (BAT) France expressed opposition to the government's plan to ban tobacco-free nicotine pouches in the National Assembly, arguing that a ban would foster a vibrant black market and harm public health and the protection of minors. The company also cited the examples of Sweden and New Zealand, which have reduced smoking rates through "clear regulations and strict controls," and proposed three policy recommendations: ban sales to minors, strictly regulate smokeless nicotine
Sep.26 by 2FIRSTS.ai
Following Japan debut, IQOS ILUMA i “Seletti Edition” limited series launches in South Korea.
Following Japan debut, IQOS ILUMA i “Seletti Edition” limited series launches in South Korea.
Philip Morris International (PMI) Korea announced a collaboration with Italian design brand Seletti to launch the IQOS ILUMA i limited “Seletti Edition.” Pre-sales begin on the 29th at IQOS.com for IQOS Club Gold and Platinum members, with sales from the 30th via the website and nine IQOS-owned stores nationwide. PMI previously said the series would debut in Japan first before rolling out to 13 global travel-retail markets.
Oct.29 by 2FIRSTS.ai