Big Tobacco Sues FDA Over Graphic Warning Labels

Claims new labels violate free speech

Tobacco companies don't want you to forget that this is a free country. Which is why five major tobacco companies including the makers of Camel, Newport and American Spirit are suing the FDA for forcing them to place new federally mandated labels on their products.

Unlike the previous warning labels, these new labels feature graphic pictures of diseased lungs, dead bodies and guys with holes in their throat. The tobacco companies are charging that the labels are drastic and will cost them even more money to print.

"Never before in the United States have producers of a lawful product been required to use their own packaging and advertising to convey an emotionally-charged government message urging adult consumers to shun their products," the companies said in the lawsuit.

The new labels come by way of the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act that was passed two years ago which also bans tobacco companies from sponsoring events and giving away free samples or branded merchandise. So, hold on to your Newport cap, it may soon be a collectable.