Case C-376/98 Germany v Parliament and Council

Case C-376/98 Germany v Parliament and Council involved Germany challenging European Union laws that restricted tobacco advertising and sponsorships, aiming to protect public health. Germany argued these laws overstepped EU powers and unfairly affected its tobacco industry. The European Court of Justice ruled that the EU was authorized to regulate tobacco advertising to protect health, and that the laws were within EU competence. Essentially, the case clarified that safeguarding public health is a valid reason for EU legislation, even if it impacts certain industries, and that EU institutions have the authority to set such rules.