AWMA sent a letter of support to Rep. Weiner (NY) for the introduction of legislation to end the illegal remote sales of cigarettes.  Our industry has been advocating such legislation for years and we are gratified by the recognition in Congress as to the pressing need for such action.

AWMA supports strengthening the Jenkins Act by increasing the reporting requirements on these remote sellers (Internet and mail order) of cigarettes.  This legislation is necessary to combat the illegal sales of these products through the Internet and to ensure that this product does not end up in the hands of underage smokers.  As states continue to raise their excise taxes, smokers are increasingly turning to the remote sales avenue for these illegal tax-free cigarettes.  These remote sellers have an unfair competitive advantage and federal legislation is necessary to level the playing field.