US Election 2024

Biden admin plows ahead with 11th hour plan to effectively ban cigarettes

The Biden administration’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken a groundbreaking step towards reducing smoking-related diseases and deaths by proposing a rule that would effectively ban cigarettes currently on the market in favor of those with lower levels of nicotine. This move is aimed at making cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products minimally or non-addictive by limiting the level of nicotine in those products.

If finalized, the United States would be the first country globally to implement such a bold and life-saving action. The FDA’s proposed rule, titled “Tobacco Product Standard for Nicotine Level of Certain Tobacco Products,” has recently cleared a regulatory hurdle and is currently in the rulemaking process. The agency is seeking input on the proposal through public comment and the FDA’s Tobacco Products Scientific Advisory Committee.

FDA Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D., emphasized the significant impact that this proposed rule could have on reducing tobacco-related disease and death. By capping the nicotine level at 0.7 milligrams per gram of tobacco in cigarettes and certain other combusted tobacco products, the FDA aims to make it less likely for young people to use cigarettes and help current smokers quit or switch to less harmful products.

While the proposed rule would not ban cigarettes or any other tobacco products, it would set a lower nicotine threshold than the current average concentration in these products on the market. However, some experts have raised concerns about the potential unintended consequences of such a regulation. Rich Marianos, former assistant director of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, warned that organized crime cartels could exploit the proposed rule by increasing their illicit tobacco operations.

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If nicotine levels in cigarettes are lowered under federal regulation, criminal groups may seize the opportunity to profit from the sale of cigarettes with higher nicotine content through black market channels. This could put average Americans at risk of purchasing unregulated and potentially dangerous products while fueling criminal activities.

The Biden administration’s push for the cigarette rule comes after a previous effort to ban menthol cigarettes was delayed due to public outcry. The administration faced criticism for unfairly targeting minority communities and potentially opening the door to illicit menthol sales. Despite these challenges, the FDA remains committed to addressing the public health impact of tobacco use and reducing the prevalence of smoking-related diseases.

In conclusion, the FDA’s proposed rule to lower nicotine levels in cigarettes represents a significant step towards curbing the harmful effects of tobacco use. While the regulation may face challenges and potential risks, the agency is dedicated to promoting public health and saving lives through effective tobacco control measures. As the rulemaking process progresses, stakeholders and the public will have the opportunity to provide feedback and shape the future of tobacco regulation in the United States.

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