Hawaii may ban ‘purse packs’ of cigarettes

HONOLULU (AP) - Hawaii may ban lipstick-sized packs of slim cigarettes because some lawmakers believe they’re marketed toward teenage girls.
    A bill pending before the Hawaii Legislature would prohibit the small, pink and teal packs of cigarettes, known as “purse packs,“ from being sold in the islands.
    The measure specifically mentions Virginia Slims Superslims Lights, which are made by Philip Morris USA.
    A spokesman for Philip Morris USA parent Altria says similar types of thin cigarettes have been sold for nearly 20 years.
    Spokesman Bill Phelps says Richmond (Virginia) based-Altria’s marketing practices are designed to reach adults who are 21 years old and already smoke. Phelps says Altria supports legislation curbing underage access to tobacco products.