The Trump administration has officially withdrawn a proposed rule to ban menthol cigarettes, a move initiated by the Biden administration after years of pressure from anti-smoking groups. The Biden FDA had announced plans to finalize the ban in April 2021, earning praise from organizations like the Truth Initiative, which argue that menthol increases addiction and disproportionately affects minority communities.
However, implementation was delayed due to the need for further consideration of public comments. A regulatory filing from Trump's Office of Management and Budget reveals that the proposed rule was rescinded on his first day back in office. The FDA, citing a communications freeze, declined to comment.
The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids expressed disappointment, emphasizing the importance of eliminating menthol cigarettes to combat predatory marketing targeting youth and minority groups. They urged states and cities to continue efforts to ban menthol and other flavored tobacco products.
Opponents of the ban argue it could fuel a black market and negatively impact policing in minority communities, potentially exacerbating existing inequalities in criminal justice. Citing the case of Eric Garner, critics point to the potential for increased police presence and confrontations in these communities.
While opposing the menthol cigarette ban, Trump previously banned most flavored e-cigarette pods during his first term, with the exception of menthol and tobacco flavors. The White House did not respond to requests for comment.
