Hiding behind the SMoke

Cigarette makers sue, saying new labels violate 1st Amendment - chicagotribune.com: "Four large cigarette makers have sued the Food and Drug Administration, alleging that new labels designed to warn consumers about the risks of smoking forces them to disseminate the government's anti-smoking message, violating the Constitution.

The lawsuit was filed by Lorillard Inc., R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co., Commonwealth Brands Inc. and Liggett Group with the U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., Lorillard said.

These companies said a FDA regulation requires cigarette packs, cartons and advertising to display graphic warnings by Sept. 22, 2012. They are seeking a court order to delay the regulation and declare that it violates the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution."