A Moral Reckoning

This document critically examines the moral contradictions in U.S. federal tobacco policy, especially as it relates to veterans. It highlights two key legislative acts from 1998:

• The Tea Act: Stripped veterans of benefits for smoking-related illnesses, despite the military’s historical encouragement of tobacco use.
• The Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) Act: Secured billions from tobacco companies for cessation programs, acknowledging tobacco’s harm but failing to support veterans suffering from its effects.

The author argues that these policies represent a profound betrayal of veterans, who were exposed to and encouraged to use tobacco during their service, only to be denied care for resulting illnesses. The Department of Defense (DOD) is criticized for continuing to allow and profit from tobacco sales on military bases, perpetuating addiction among service members while avoiding responsibility for their health consequences.

The document calls for:

• Full government acknowledgment and responsibility for tobacco-related illnesses among veterans.
• An immediate end to tobacco sales on military installations.
• Comprehensive medical coverage for veterans affected by tobacco.
• Genuine cessation programs funded directly by the government.

Ultimately, the author urges a shift from financial expediency to moral consistency and justice, emphasizing that the treatment of veterans reflects the nation’s core values and the integrity of its democracy.