CVS quits U.S. Chamber over tobacco stance
By Yashaswini Swamynathan, Reuters
CVS Health Corp said it was withdrawing its membership from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce after media reports that the trade group was lobbying globally against anti-smoking laws.
The No. 2 U.S. drugstore chain said it was “surprised” to read recent reports on the chamber’s position on tobacco products outside the United States.
The New York Times reported last week that the chamber and its foreign affiliates were lobbying against anti-smoking laws such as restrictions on smoking in public places and bans on menthol and slim cigarettes, mainly in developing countries.
When considering decisions made by corporate America, it’s impossible to be too cynical. CVS dropped tobacco products last year, saw positive marketing benefits and decided to take and publicize their next public step.
Still, all skepticism aside, there’s never anything wrong with taking the high road when dealing with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a perpetual low road traveler. So good for CVS; ethical decision making, regardless of motive, should always be encouraged, admired and applauded.
Indeed
About 1300 Americans die each day from Tobacco/smoking or second hand smoking.
Good for CVS to leave the US Chamber of Commerce.
I wonder how much local Chamber of Commerce money works it’s way to the US Chamber…
Good for CVS for doing the right thing on not selling tobacco and standing up to the chamber of commerce and saying “adios”.
Speaking of smoking, lets crack down on all the illegal “grow houses” around town. Get there house inspected and cut down on the number of house fires.
Another house on William ave.burned up recently… it’s a growing problem.
OLS
Kudos to CVS for taking a stand against tobacco products. Its never easy to stand up for something different than the status quo.