Virginia receives nearly $110 million from tobacco settlement agreement

The Commonwealth of Virginia received nearly $110 million in tobacco settlement funds from major tobacco companies, Attorney General Jay Jones announced on May 2. The payment is part of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, which has provided Virginia with over $3.5 billion since it was enacted in 1998.

This funding is significant because it supports public health initiatives and helps offset healthcare costs related to smoking-related illnesses. The funds also support programs like the Virginia Healthcare Fund and the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth, which aim to reduce underage tobacco use.

“The Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement allows states like Virginia to continue holding major corporations accountable for the tremendous toll their industry has taken on the health and lives of those in the Commonwealth,” said Attorney General Jay Jones. “These funds will enable Virginia to continue enforcing our tobacco laws, and direct essential funding to programs like the Virginia Healthcare Fund and the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth as they work to combat underage tobacco use. My office will always hold those who do wrong by Virginians accountable.”

Under this agreement, all U.S. states and territories receive annual payments that help cover healthcare expenses linked to smoking while also providing economic opportunities for regions previously dependent on tobacco production. The agreement also includes restrictions on youth marketing of tobacco products, sales of branded merchandise, and sponsorships at entertainment or sporting events.

Jones and his office’s Tobacco Enforcement Section are responsible for ensuring compliance with both state law and settlement terms so that these benefits continue reaching Virginians. Inquiries about compliance or reports regarding illicit cigarette sales should be directed to this section.

The Attorney General’s office addresses a wide range of issues across Virginia—including civil rights enforcement, victim assistance programs, human trafficking prevention efforts, consumer protection resources against identity theft or fraud—and provides legal counsel for state agencies while promoting public safety according to its official website. Miyares currently serves as the 48th Attorney General according to official records.