Signs noting the Seneca Nation’s stance on this issue align the state Thruway and Route 20.

The Seneca Nation of Indians today blasted the United States Senate for its passage of the PACT Act, a measure that will substantially limit distribution of tobacco products produced and sold by Native American businesses. The PACT Act which was approved by the Senate Thursday night, will destroy more than 1,000 native and non-native tobacco industry jobs here in Western New York, according to Seneca Nation President Barry E. Snyder Sr. “The PACT Act is being portrayed as a tool to fight cigarette smuggling. In reality, it is about big tobacco protecting market share. This action will result in the death of legitimate, treaty-sanctioned Native American commerce, causing significant economic harm, President Snyder said. “We will not back down. We will pursue an aggressive campaign of outreach and education to inform the voters of Western New York which political leaders stand with the Seneca Nation and those who don’.