U.s. Set For New Tobacco Rules Era

Fda To Expand Power Over Additives, Marketing

Glantz is among a handful of public health advocates who fear that tobacco companies will end up gaming the regulatory process to enhance the reputation of their products.

Altria - the parent company of industry leader Philip Morris, which might have an easier time maintaining dominance in a more regulated market - endorses the bill.

"Our goal, under the federal regulation, would be to design the best products we can for someone who wants to enjoy tobacco without the health risks," said company spokesman William Phelps. Other manufacturers oppose the legislation.

Several Republican lawmakers have also expressed concerns that tobacco products will be perceived as safer because they are regulated by the FDA.

There is some risk that could decrease smokers' motivation to quit, said Dorothy Hatsukami, associate director of cancer prevention and control at the University of Minnesota's Masonic Cancer Center. "We have to make sure that we are continuing to educate the public to let them know that even if these products have reduced toxicants, they are still harmful."