The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA), signed on November 23, 1998, is an agreement among attorneys general representing 46 states, the District of Columbia, and the five US territories, and the major cigarette companies. The MSA provides for annual payments that total approximately $246 billion to be allocated among the 46 states, District of Columbia, and US territories. The MSA did not constrain the use of the funds nor proscribe their use for non health-related purposes. The opinions of the general public, health advocates, and national and local government officials appear to differ considerably regarding the use of the MSA funds. In order to determine the opinions of the general public, we conducted a telephone survey of a random sample of 1500 residents of the City of Long Beach, who were at least 18 years of age. Questions included alternative uses for MSA funds, as well as various uses within the category of health-related services. A total of 80% of respondents felt that the money should be used for improvement of health care services in comparison to other uses. Regarding various types of health-related programs nearly 40% of respondents felt that funds should be used for keeping hospital emergency rooms open, while more than 20% agreed that the money should be used for anti-smoking education for youth.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participant will be able to: 1. Be familiar with the Master Settlement Agreement (MSA). 2. Learn about alternative spending plans for MSA funds. 3. Become aware of differences in opinion between the general public and government offices regarding the MSA.
Keywords: Tobacco Settlement, Funding
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.