WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The White House is postponing the FDA’s plan to ban menthol cigarettes nationally.
After previously endorsing a federal rule, the Department of Health and Human Services says, “It’s clear that there are still more conversations to have, and that will take significantly more time.”
The decision is sparking backlash from anti-smoking groups that have pushed for ban since the passage of the 2009 Tobacco Control Act.
“Unfortunately, every day that there’s a delay, more kids will become addicted to tobacco and fewer people will end their addiction,” says American Lung Association spokesperson Erika Sward.
The FDA proposed to ban menthol cigarettes in 2022, citing years of science and evidence showing the products are harmful and addictive.
NAACP Health Equity Director Dr. Chris Pernell says delaying the rule from being finalized will disproportionately harm Black communities. According to the FDA more than 80% of Black smokers use menthol cigarettes.
“The administration has talked a lot about the importance of health equity, this was a moment to demonstrate health equity in action,” says Dr. Pernell.
Opponents of a ban argue outlawing cigarettes could create a black market that would fuel racial inequities in the criminal justice system.
The FDA rule does not target individuals, instead it states FDA enforcement will only address manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, importers and retailers who manufacture, distribute, or sell such products.
Dr. Pernell calls the allegation misinformation and believes delaying a ban will not help President Joe Biden in the November election.
The FDA says it’s still committed to banning menthol cigarettes but has not provided a timeline.
