Tobacco can sometimes be a paradox; for many it brings death, for some it is life. Take Richmond, VA for example. Altria is the #1 maker of cigarettes in the US, and is one of the largest employers in Virginia. According to a Tobacco Facts article, ” about 5,700 people work in Altria factories, offices and laboratories in the Richmond area. The company ranked seventh among private-sector employers in the region.” With the current economy not looking to bounce back with an increase in jobs, companies like Altria remain a constant source of stability.

Altria also makes large donations to the schools in the area; providing new computers, tutoring struggling students, and putting in countless volunteer hours. Much of the legislation that we are fighting for would slowly deplete companies like Altria, creating job loss. What is the answer when this happens? What are people’s options? Tobacco companies think that their existence is inevitable, we need to make them re-think this illusion.

The people of Richmond have come to depend on companies like Altria, with dollars being thrown around in a climate where everyone is looking to save. This creates the idea that Tobacco ain’t that bad. Money will always talk, but so does death. New industry is needed in the area, clean industry. Think about it.