The Public Health Law Center, a leading organization dedicated to promoting public health and commercial tobacco control, commends Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison for his announcement of a landmark settlement with JUUL Labs and Altria. This significant development marks a crucial step forward in protecting the health and well-being of Minnesotans, particularly our youth and young adults, from the harmful effects of vaping and other tobacco use.

Attorney General Keith Ellison's commitment to holding JUUL Labs and Altria accountable for their actions demonstrates his dedication to safeguarding public health. The settlement comes after a thorough investigation and three-week jury trial exposing the marketing practices of these companies, which contributed to the alarming rise in youth vaping rates across Minnesota.

The settlement agreement encompasses essential provisions that will help stop the marketing and sale of vaping products to minors. JUUL Labs and Altria are required to implement stricter marketing controls, enhance age verification systems for online sales, and discontinue the sale of non-tobacco flavored products. These measures will undoubtedly play a significant role in reducing youth initiation and addiction to e-cigarettes.

The $60.5 million financial settlement obtained through this agreement will provide vital resources to support public health initiatives aimed at combating youth vaping and all other types of tobacco use. These resources should be utilized to fund robust educational campaigns, community-based prevention programs, and evidence-based treatment services across the state. The Public Health Law Center applauds Attorney General Keith Ellison for prioritizing the well-being of Minnesotans and ensuring that the funds will be allocated to initiatives that directly address the youth vaping epidemic.

"Attorney General Keith Ellison's strong leadership and commitment to public health have resulted in a groundbreaking settlement that will have a profound impact on the lives of Minnesotans," said Joelle Lester, Executive Director at the Public Health Law Center. "This settlement sends a powerful message to the e-cigarette industry that the exploitation of our youth will not be tolerated, and that public health should be prioritized over corporate profits.  Together, we can create a healthier future for our communities and protect the next generation from the harms of commercial tobacco and vaping."

For more information about Juul settlements across the country, check out our Juul Litigation Settlement Guide & Interactive Map.

May 17, 2023