*Administration of Barack Obama, 2014 *

**Statement on CVS Caremark Corporation's Decision Not To Sell Tobacco Products **

*February 5, 2014 *

I applaud this morning's news that CVS Caremark has decided to stop selling cigarettes and other tobacco products in its stores and begin a national campaign to help millions of Americans quit smoking instead. As one of the largest retailers and pharmacies in America, CVS Caremark sets a powerful example.

And today's decision will help advance my administration's efforts to reduce tobacco-related deaths, cancer, and heart disease, as well as bring down health care costs, ultimately saving lives and protecting untold numbers of families from pain and heartbreak for years to come. I congratulate and thank the CEO of CVS Caremark, Larry Merlo, the board of directors, and all who helped make a choice that will have a profoundly positive impact on the health of our country.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : CVS Caremark Corp.'s decision not to sell tobacco products*.*

*Names:* Merlo, Larry J.

*Subjects:* CVS Caremark Corp., decision not to sell tobacco products; Health and medical care : Affordability and costs; Health and medical care : Smoking cessation programs.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD201400073.