British Columbia has officially received its first payment from a historic $32.5 billion settlement in its lawsuit against tobacco companies. The province will receive a total of over $3.6 billion over the next 18 years.
Attorney General Niki Sharma hailed the $936 million payment as an important step toward justice for British Columbians. While acknowledging that no amount of money can undo the harm caused by tobacco-related diseases or bring back lost lives, Sharma emphasized the significance of the settlement. She stressed that the legal victory sends a strong message to multinational companies: deceptive practices that harm people will not go unpunished.
Sharma also reassured the public that the government will continue its focus on health initiatives. Regardless of the settlement, funding for cancer treatment, smoking cessation programs, and primary care will remain a top priority.
The Attorney General committed to holding harmful corporations accountable, ensuring they—not taxpayers—bear the cost of the damage caused. This settlement marks a significant moment in the ongoing effort to protect the health of British Columbians and safeguard future generations.
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