Federal Menthol Cigarette Ban: In a move met with criticism, the Biden administration has delayed the anticipated federal rules banning menthol flavoring in cigarettes. The final rule, originally planned for August 2023, is now expected in March, according to the Unified Agenda of Regulatory and Deregulatory Actions. This delay has led to accusations that the administration is yielding to pressure from the tobacco industry, which vehemently opposes the ban.
Health advocates argue that the postponement, if influenced by the tobacco industry, prioritizes profits over public health. Menthol cigarettes, particularly popular among Black smokers, have faced increased scrutiny. The industry contends that a ban could criminalize a preferred flavor, leading to an underground market. Some organizations, aligned with the tobacco industry, assert this viewpoint, highlighting concerns about potential racial disparities in enforcement.
The Biden administration emphasizes that the meeting schedule listed in the public calendar may not accurately reflect the nature of discussions. It clarifies that separate appointments within a group can inflate the total number of meetings. Nonetheless, critics argue that certain advocacy groups supporting the menthol ban have not had the opportunity to meet with officials.
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The political and economic dynamics of tobacco legislation are questioned by this delay. Menthol cigarettes account for 37% of sales. The tobacco industry’s state and municipal lobbying has increased, showing resistance to regulation.
Experts say a menthol ban could improve public health, but the administration has not explained the delay. Tobacco kills half a million Americans each year, 200,000 of them from menthol cigarettes. A prohibition could save hundreds of thousands of lives since menthol makes smoking easier and quitting harder, especially for Black and non-White people.
Public health advocates express concerns that any delay in implementing the ban may compromise its effectiveness and, consequently, hinder potential positive impacts on public health. Despite the setback, they hope the Biden administration will prioritize public well-being and promptly publish the menthol ban rule.
Our Reader’s Queries
Is Biden really banning menthol cigarettes?
Public health officials are outraged as the Biden administration has yet again postponed the ban on menthol cigarettes. These products have been linked to the deaths of countless Americans, making the delay all the more frustrating.
Can I still buy menthol cigarettes in California?
The sale of certain tobacco products has been banned, including flavored e-cigarettes or vapes that deliver nicotine or other vaporized liquids, such as e-juice, pods, or cartridges. Menthol cigarettes are also no longer available for purchase. Additionally, flavored little cigars and cigarillos are now prohibited.
Can I buy menthol cigarettes in Nevada?
It is prohibited to sell cigarettes, cigarette tobacco, or roll-your-own tobacco that have a distinct flavor (excluding menthol or tobacco flavor). Additionally, displaying advertisements for tobacco products without a health warning statement is not allowed.
Why are menthol cigarettes worse?
Menthol has been found to make cigarettes more enticing and effortless to smoke. Moreover, it amplifies the addictive impact of nicotine on the brain. The quantity of nicotine, which is the addictive substance in tobacco products, has been on the rise in menthol cigarettes in recent times.