According to the Complaint, 22nd Century Group, Inc. ("22nd Century" or the "Company") provides technology that increases or decreases the nicotine levels and other nicotinic alkaloids in tobacco plants, and cannabinoids in hemp/cannabis plants through genetic engineering and plant breeding.

The Complaint alleges that throughout the Class Period, Defendants made false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) 22nd Century’s stock was prone to manipulation through paid stock promotions; (2) such conduct would subject 22nd Century to heightened regulatory scrutiny by the Securities and Exchange Commission; and (3) consequently, 22nd Century’s public statements were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times.

On August 1, 2019, the Court issued an Order appointing Lead Plaintiffs and Counsel. On September 6, the Court issued an Order transferring the case to the Western District of New York. On November 19, Lead Plaintiffs filed an amended Complaint.