Attorney General Gansler Congratulates Former Attorney General Curran on his American Legacy Award

Maryland Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler congratulated former Attorney General J. Joseph Curran, Jr., on his receipt of the American Legacy Foundation’s Public Service Award for his fight against the tobacco industry.

“Joe Curran has played a pivotal role in protecting our youth from the dangers of smoking by pioneering effective programs nationwide. He was the leader in the fight to restrict tobacco companies from advertising to youth, preventing sales to youth, and encouraging the entertainment industry to use its influence to prevent youth smoking. As a result of his strong leadership, many of our children will not take up the habit of smoking and live healthier lives.

“When I took office in January as Maryland’s Attorney General, I pledged to continue the efforts of my predecessor, J. Joseph Curran, Jr., in keeping our children tobacco-free. Mr. Curran built a solid foundation and I am committed to protecting Marylanders from the life-threatening risks of smoking.”

Former Attorney General J. Joseph Curran was awarded the Public Service Award last night in New York. The American Legacy Foundation presented Curran with the award based on his pioneering efforts to protect our youth from the dangers of smoking, by preventing unlawful access to cigarettes, enforcing the youth targeting restrictions of the Master Settlement Agreement, and reducing youth exposure to smoking in movies.