Posted 3.28.2012 by Karla Rivera
Despite a judge declaring that the Food & Drug Administration's cigarette labels violated freedom of speech, the U.S. Court of Appeals supports the FDA.
The Cincinnati-based appeals court went on to say that these restrictions were not unconstitutional and they did not violate tobacco companies' freedom of speech — a significant blow to cigarette companies, which would have to display graphic images on product cartons if labeling initiative is passed.
Judge Leon argued that the FDA's labels had been digitally enhanced to evoke an emotional response, which is why he originally claimed the initiative was unconstitutional. However, he didn't strike the proposal out, he merely delayed it by a year until courts could decide on a proper ruling.