Facebook Twitter Email
AUGUST 1, 2000

The state of Missouri is suing a member of the Seneca Nation of New York for not contributing to an escrow account designed to offset health-care costs for cigarette smokers.

The suit alleges Ross L. John failed to pay $131,000 to Missouri. Missouri law requires any company who supplies cigarettes sold in Missouri to the escrow fund.

Thirty other states have similar laws. The 1998 Tobacco Settlement Agreement says major cigarette manufacturers are responsible for health programs stemming from smoking.

The suit names Grand River Enterprises Six Nations Ltd of Canada as the supplier of cigarettes to John.

Get the Story:
Missouri sues Native American cigarette company for failing to pay health dues (AP 8/1)