CHARLOTTETOWN — A bill has been introduced in the Prince Edward Island legislature that would allow the province to sue tobacco companies for past health-care costs related to the product's use.

Once the bill is proclaimed, the province will have two years to bring action against manufacturers and promoters of tobacco products.

There would be no time limit on how far back damages can be claimed.

The government pledged to introduce the legislation in its throne speech earlier this month.

P.E.I. Attorney General Gerard Greenan says the act won't be proclaimed until a final decision is made on whether the province will proceed with an action.

Other provinces, including New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec and British Columbia, have passed similar legislation.