Senator seeks end to federal smoke shop grants

(Washington-AP) -- A senator today proposed stopping federal grants to American Indian tribes who use the money to build smoke<br>shops that sell discounted cigarettes.<br><br>Senator Christopher Bond

Tuesday, April 4th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Washington-AP) -- A senator today proposed stopping federal grants to American Indian tribes who use the money to build smoke
shops that sell discounted cigarettes.

Senator Christopher Bond is chairman of the spending panel that controls HUD's budget. He says cheaper cigarettes encourage smoking
among minors. Housing Secretary Andrew Cuomo quickly seconded the proposal.

Bond announced the plan at a news conference with the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids and the American Lung Association.

Bond learned last spring of a 1997 grant to the Reno Sparks Indian Colony in Verdi, Nevada.

A counsel with the Senate Small Business Committee says videotapes showed Oklahoma smoke shops and their advertising of tobacco products of all kinds.