Dr. Jennifer Howse, president of the March of Dimes, issued the following statement:
"Approval of H.R. 1256, the 'Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act,' by the U.S. Senate is an important step forward for public health and improving the chance that infants and children will have a healthier start in life.
"Giving the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) the authority to regulate tobacco products will help reduce the number of new smokers, particularly women and adolescents. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy poses many risks for pregnant women and their children, including increased risk of premature delivery.
"The Foundation has activated thousands of volunteers and staff from every state in the nation and urged them to contact their U.S. Senators and Representatives with a message to vote 'YES' on this landmark bill.
"We look forward to quick resolution of minor differences between the Senate and House bills so that it can be sent to the President's desk before the July 4th congressional recess."