Tobacco companies must admit lies

AGAWAM, Mass. (WWLP) - Tobacco companies must publicly admit that they lied to Americans for decades about the dangers of smoking, a federal judge has ruled.

The ruling, which is one of the last legal steps in settling liability in the prosecution of cigarette makers, has divided smokers and ex-smokers here in western Massachusetts.

"It's bad for you in general.  People should know this.  They really shouldn't have to come out and apologize because you should know this, that smoking is bad for you," Ashley Hoose, who is a smoker.

Don Michaud, who quit smoking, says that he agrees with the ruling.

"I think it's about time, maybe.  It might be nice if they were told they we're lied to," said Michaud.

The ruling requires tobacco companies place messages in advertisements and packages, warning about the dangers of smoking, and stating that Americans were "deliberately deceived."

It's not clear if the companies will appeal the judge's decision.