NEW YORK - New York City has agreed to stop enforcing a mandate that requires tobacco retailers to display graphic warning posters near their cash registers, NY1.com reports.
The city's Health Department maintains that the images of damaged lungs and teeth are helpful deterrents that prevent New Yorkers from becoming addicted to smoking. However, tobacco companies have sued the city, arguing the law violates the first amendment rights of tobacco companies and vendors.
New York has agreed to cease enforcing the rule until a federal court hears the case, though the Health Department will continue distributing the posters and encouraging their display.