Biden Administration Delays Menthol Cigarette Ban

The decision to delay the ban comes amid significant opposition and concerns about public health and civil rights.

The Biden administration announced a delay in the menthol cigarette ban, citing the need for further discussions and feedback from civil rights groups.
Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra emphasized that more time is needed to address the diverse concerns raised during the public comment period.
Public health groups express frustration, arguing that the delay undermines efforts to combat smoking-related illnesses and disproportionately affects Black communities.
Opponents of the ban, including tobacco companies and some civil rights advocates, argue it could lead to increased illicit trafficking and unfairly target minority smokers.
The proposed ban was initially part of Biden's Cancer Moonshot initiative, aimed at reducing cancer rates by curbing smoking.