Missouri getting millions more in tobacco suit settlement money

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. -- Missouri will receive $1.7 million in new tobacco money this year and an additional $30 million to $40 million over the next decade from a Florida-based tobacco manufacturer.

Vibo Corp. agreed to join the 1998 Master Settlement Agreement, which provides compensation to 46 participating states and sharply restricts tobacco advertising. The company, operating as General Tobacco, had been the largest tobacco company not participating in the settlement.

"Equally as important as the money Missouri will receive are the restrictions Vibo must now comply with," Missouri Attorney General Jay Nixon said. "Those restrictions are what are going to help us in our fight to continue the decrease in smoking rates."

More than 40 companies have joined the agreement since it was adopted.