Tobacco Documents Online

PRO-ACTIVE PROPOSAL MASSACHUSETTS MINORS LEGISLATIVE ACTION: October 11, 1990 STATE/LOCALITY: Massachusetts: Eleven selected communities. ISSUE: Sales to minors. SUMMARY: Introduction of reasonable regulations of sales and sampling; would preempt more drastic measures. SPONSOR: Local chambers of commerce. INDUSTRY ACTION Local ordinance introductions are increasing, supposedly to protect minors but clearly aimed at harassing the industry. Most propose bans or otherwise severely restricting sales. This project selects eleven cities and towns where we have good relations with the chamber of commerce. Educational approaches to the chambers are to be made, resulting in chamber supported introductions of an omnibus minors ordinance, tailored to local drafting requirements. This effort should produce several helpful effects: passing reasonable regulations, diverting anti-smokers efforts elsewhere. Providing an indication of support for similar statewide legislation to be reintroduced in 1991 and providing chambers with positive political activity. RESOURCES NEEDED YES/NO DATE NEEDED ECONOMIC ANALYSiS/FACTSHEET YES 12/1/90 It may be necessary to develop a factsheet for each selected city. An understanding of sales figures, numbers of vending machines and retail locations will be relevant. The first city is Quincy, MA. LEGAL MEMORANDUM YES On-going The legal memoranda developed for Brookline and other localities proposing bans will be useful in presenting arguments precluding similar action in the selected cities. TIOR 0019604

EXPERT WITNESSES? YES As needed It is unlikely but possible that an expert witness regarding sampling may be requested for a presentation to a chamber of commerce government committee. However, the preferred and expected approach will be more personal initially, followed by activity by the chamber representatives themselves, rather than outside witnesses. COALITION ALLIES? YES Now The chambers of commerce will be the critical and primary players in this effort. TI GRASSROOTS MOBILIZATION? NO Direct tobacco contact with this effort would have a negative impact on its outcome. The impetus should be seen as chamber driven. COMPANY RESOURCES? YES As needed It may benefit us to have access to the companies' smoker mailing lists to develop calls to local officials once the proposal is before a particular city council. However, direct contact should n_Qt occur from cigarette manufacturers. PUBLIC AFFAIRS/MEDIA RESOURCES? NO Chambers of commerce have their own public relations people and might welcome assistance in this effort. However, this will be determined on a case by case basis. it may be helpful to have the Institute's public affairs organization assist the local business people to develop and coordinate a media campaign. ADDITIONAL NEEDS? To be determined. TIOR 0019605