US: Florida Steps Up Campaign

The continuing attack on cigarette advertising and sponsorship in the US is being stepped up, with the state of Florida publishing on 14 February new rules limiting the use of tobacco company banners to promote sporting events.

The new rules are due to take effect in March. The ban on such promotions also covers beer and other products aimed at adults, besides tobacco. Lynn Holschuh, on behalf of the Florida transportation authorities, said that “most sporting events have a corporate name attached to them and that name would be allowed…But if it’s a product that can’t be sold to minors, the banner can’t contain logos or significant advertising promoting the product.”

Banners and advertising of such products carried on private property will not be affected by the new rules, and nor do they affect municipal, interstate and other roads maintained by other authorities.