R. J. Reynolds Tobacco Company controversies
Controversies tied to this brand in public sources. A listing is not a finding of fault.
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2026
Albuquerque sues eight tobacco companies over cigarette butt litter
Lawsuit filed
The City of Albuquerque filed a lawsuit against eight tobacco companies, including Philip Morris USA, Altria Group, R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company, Reynolds American, Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, British American Tobacco P.L.C, Liggett Group and BSR Distributing, seeking to recover costs of cleaning up cigarette butts from streets, sidewalks, waterways, arroyos and public places. The city alleges the companies continue to produce non-biodegradable filters despite knowing they create waste.
Stated objective. to hold the companies accountable for litter involving cigarette butts and recoup cleanup costs
Company response
Denial — ITG Brands
As a responsible manufacturer, we take this matter seriously and disagree with the claims made against us. We will respond through the appropriate legal process
Source excerpt
The City of Albuquerque is suing eight tobacco companies to hold them accountable for litter involving cigarette butts.
The city attacked the companies for continuing to produce non-biodegradable filters, knowing the filters create the waste they have to clean up.
The city is suing Philip Morris USA, Inc.; Altria Group, Inc.; R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company; Reynolds American, Inc.; Santa Fe Natural Tobacco Company, Inc.; British American Tobacco P.L.C; Liggett Group, LLC; BSR Distributing, Inc. (Blue Sky Distributors).
2006
Canadian cigarette-smuggling case
Former sales vice-president Stan Smith pleaded guilty to participating in a cigarette-smuggling operation while employed by Reynolds. The case concerned tax avoidance and black-market distribution in Canada.
2002
Youth marketing and free-cigarette penalties
The company faced fines for distributing free cigarettes at events attended by children and for violating restrictions connected with the Master Settlement Agreement.
1994
Congressional testimony on nicotine addiction
Chief executive James Johnston testified under oath that he did not believe nicotine was addictive, a statement later cited in criticism of tobacco-industry positions on health risks and addiction.
1991
Joe Camel youth-marketing controversy
A study found that young children recognized Joe Camel at unusually high rates, leading critics to argue that the campaign attracted minors. Reynolds rejected the allegation and said its research and campaign were directed at adults.
Farm labor campaign
The Farm Labor Organizing Committee criticized conditions and bargaining arrangements in Reynolds's tobacco procurement system and sought direct engagement with the company, growers, and farmworkers.