1998 Master Settlement Agreement

The 1998 Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) was a landmark legal settlement between 46 U.S. states and major tobacco companies. It aimed to resolve lawsuits over the healthcare costs associated with smoking-related illnesses. The tobacco companies agreed to pay billions of dollars to the states to cover these costs and fund public health campaigns. Additionally, the agreement imposed restrictions on tobacco advertising and marketing, particularly aimed at reducing youth smoking. The MSA represented a significant shift in tobacco regulation and accountability, influencing public health policy and the tobacco industry for years to come.