Good afternoon.

As you all know, the Supreme Court’s recent tobacco decision did three important things. First, the Court held that FDA does not have the authority to regulate tobacco. Second, the Court agreed with FDA’s findings on the health consequences of tobacco use. Even the tobacco industry no longer argues whether tobacco is addictive and risky. Third, the Court clearly said that Congress, and only Congress, can empower FDA to regulate tobacco and reduce youth smoking.

I’m joining my friend and colleague, Dr. Ganske, in accepting that challenge.

There are many points on which Dr. Ganske and I agree. First, that smoking is the number one children’s health issue. Second, that youth smoking is not a partisan issue. Every member of Congress, from both political parties, should be held to account on the question of FDA jurisdiction to regulate tobacco. Third, that we should focus our efforts on the question raised by the Supreme Court’s decision, namely FDA’s regulatory jurisdiction over tobacco. Finally, we agree that no opportunity should be lost in our attempt to enact legislation to restore FDA’s authority. Next week the Health and Environment Subcommittee has scheduled a mark up on children’s health legislation. A children’s health bill worthy of the name will include a provision that restores FDA’s jurisdiction to reduce youth smoking.

I call on the tobacco industry to work with us. A senior executive of Philip Morris, Steve Parrish, recently said "the Federal Government should regulate tobacco....The goal for me is to come up with a responsible, sensible, comprehensive regulatory approach for this product so that we keep it out of the hands of kids." In response to the question "Are you willing to accept meaningful and real FDA regulation?", Mr. Parrish responded "Yes." Finally, Mr. Parrish said "we should be talking to Congress as part of this process.  Right now." I agree.

Members of Congress now have the clear responsibility to provide FDA with authority to regulate tobacco products. If we don’t act this year, we should be held accountable by the voters in seven months.

With that I would like to now ask my good friend and colleague to come forward to comment on this matter.