August 29,2025
RED FM News Desk
Attorney General Niki Sharma has issued the following statement regarding British Columbia’s first payment from the historic litigation against tobacco companies:
“Today represents a significant milestone for British Columbians, as the Province receives the initial $936-million payment from the landmark $32.5-billion settlement in the lawsuit against tobacco companies. Over the next 18 years, B.C. is expected to receive more than $3.6 billion in total.
“While no amount of money can ever bring back those lost to tobacco-related illnesses or undo the damage caused by addiction, this payment is an important step toward justice for British Columbians. I extend special thanks to everyone who has worked tirelessly with the government over the past three decades to achieve this historic outcome.
“This victory sends a clear message: we will not tolerate multinational companies engaging in deceptive practices that cause widespread harm at great cost to the public. As Attorney General, I am committed to using every available tool—legislation, regulation, and litigation—to hold wrongdoers accountable and ensure that they, not taxpayers, bear the cost of rectifying the damage caused.
“Regardless of this settlement or any future payments, our government will continue to invest in cancer treatment, primary care, research, and programs to support smoking cessation, all for the benefit of British Columbians.
“Our foremost priority remains the safety and well-being of British Columbians, no matter the scale of the challenge or the length of the journey ahead.”
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