New TV Campaign Ask Congress To Endorse FDA Rule On Tobacco And Kids

Washington, DC - The nation’s first TV advertisement urging Congressional support for the FDA rule restricting tobacco marketing to youth was unveiled today at a press briefing here. The ad, sponsored by the CAMPAIGN FOR TOBACCO-FREE KIDS, begins airing this week when members of the Senate are in Washington to prepare for the 105th Congress. 'While Congressional approval of the FDA rule is not necessary, we hope Congress will stand behind this reasonable, common-sense measure that will help spare millions of children from suffering early deaths,' said Alfred Munzer, M.D., who spoke at the briefing. Dr. Munzer is past president of the American Lung Association and director of pulmonary medicine at Washington Adventist Hospital. The 30-second spot opens with a voiceover saying 'Tobacco companies say they don’t target kids, but the facts tell a different story.' Using MTV-style editing, the ad shows teenagers being bombarded with cigarette ads and promotions at an amusement park, with in-store displays and on T-shirts and other items carrying cigarette brand logos. Viewers also see a young boy playing with a toy racing car brandishing the Marlboro logo. The ad encourages people to 'ask your elected officials to support the FDA rule to protect kids from tobacco marketing and sales.' The CAMPAIGN’S toll-free number is listed: 1-800-284-KIDS. The ad is airing during network news broadcasts in Washington on ABC, CBS, and NBC, on CNN (Headline News, 'Crossfire,' 'Larry King Live') and on local Washington news stations. It will be aired extensively in January when Congress convenes. The ad was created by Smith & Harroff Inc., an Alexandria, VA.-based advertising agency. # # # NOTE: Copies of the TV ad are available by calling Brian Ruberry at 202-296-5469