MLB tightens rules on smokeless tobacco, much to senators’ delight

    The MLB Player’s Association today took action against smokeless tobacco, banning it in televised interviews.

    As part of the collective bargaining agreement, players, managers and coaches will also be prohibited from using smokeless tobacco during club appearances, and must conceal the products when fans are in the ballpark and refrain from carrying the products on the bodies or in their uniforms.

    U.S. Senators Frank R. Lautenberg (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Tom Harkin (D-IA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) are pleased.

    “This is a welcome acknowledgement by players and owners that tobacco use of any kind is no longer a tradition that should be upheld,” reads a joint statement. “We hope these new rules will eventually lead to a complete ban on smokeless tobacco – a move that could prevent a new generation of fans from emulating their heroes by picking up this dangerously addictive habit.”

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