RJ Reynolds Tobacco has sued California officials, including the attorney general

According to foreign reports today, RJ Reynolds Tobacco Co. (RJRT) has filed a lawsuit against California officials, including Attorney General Rob Bonta, in response to several notices issued by the Attorney General claiming that certain styles of Camel and Newport cigarettes are inferred based on their promotional materials.

This lawsuit, filed in California state court, seeks declaratory and injunctive relief, including the withdrawal of the notices.

In a press release, RJRT stated that it supports its new products and believes they comply with California law, allowing them to continue sales. Before launching products for sale, RJRT followed all applicable pre-market regulatory requirements.

According to RJRT, the new Camel and Newport styles have no distinct flavors or aromas apart from tobacco and clearly indicate in their marketing that they do not contain menthol. The Attorney General's notice does not acknowledge the fact that RJRT's new product introductions are prominently labeled as non-menthol.

"RJ Reynolds has repeatedly called on California law enforcement officials to take action against the large number of illegal, unregulated, child-friendly flavored e-cigarettes, such as watermelon bubblegum and rainbow candy, which are being shipped to the state's ports from unknown sources," RJRT wrote. "Prioritizing enforcement of these illegal vapor products rather than focusing on compliant products would better serve Californians."