The Senate voted 79-17 on Thursday to pass H.R.1256, the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act.

The bill authorizes the Food and Drug Administration to regulate tobacco. Supporters say the measure will reduce teen smoking and make consumers more aware of the dangers of tobacco.

The Senate version differs little from the one that already passed the House. The House version contains a provision that preserves tribal sovereignty with regard to state enforcement of federal tobacco laws.

President Barack Obama supports the bill and has said he will sign it.

Get the Story:
Senate Passes Bill to Let FDA Regulate Tobacco (The Washington Post 6/12)
Senate Votes to Allow F.D.A. to Regulate Tobacco (The New York Times 6/12)

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