Other LanguagesPROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND -- For his distinguished work on tobacco negotiation, mediation and litigation, the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) has honored Assistant Attorney General Rusty Fallis with the Laurie Loveland Award for 2008. This award, which Fallis shares with his colleague Ann Uglietta of the Arizona Attorney General’s Office, recognizes extraordinary efforts to advance the work of state Attorneys General on tobacco-related issues.
“Rusty Fallis has played a huge role in helping retain tobacco settlement dollars coming into our state, protecting public health funds used to promote anti-smoking programs and youth access to cigarettes,” said Washington State Attorney General Rob McKenna, who co-chairs the NAAG Tobacco Committee. “As we celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement, I’m thrilled that Rusty is receiving this well-deserved national recognition for his tireless work on this critical issue.”
Fallis’ work on the Tobacco Master Settlement Agreement (MSA) includes—but is not limited to—serving as an advisor and staff member for the Tobacco Co-Chairs and Committee, working closely with his colleagues in other states; coordinating the NAAG Tobacco Project; negotiating with state tobacco representatives; facilitating discussions among the states; identifying and deploying the appropriate talent from the AG’s office and from within NAAG; developing arguments and strategies to advance the objectives of state attorneys general; and identifying the correct resources and best arguments to help the states move forward in a unified way.
In an April 17 letter to Chris Toth, NAAG’s 2008 Awards Coordinator, McKenna and fellow Tobacco Committee Co-Chair Attorney General Terry Goddard of Arizona urged the selection of Fallis and Uglietta: “They are truly dedicated to their roles, devoting extraordinary time, effort and commitment to the job that they do for us and, more importantly, for the people of all the MSA-signatory states. Late nights, early mornings and time away from home are accepted and given without hesitation. Ann and Rusty are outstanding lawyers, outstanding public servants, and outstanding candidates for the Laurie Loveland Award.”
The award is named for former North Dakota Solicitor General Laurie Loveland, who was instrumental in drafting and negotiating the MSA.
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Contacts:
Janelle Guthrie, AGO Communications Director, (360) 586-0725