Delay in Menthol Cigarette Ban Criticized by American Lung Association

Proposed Ban Expected to Save 654,000 Lives, Primarily Among Black Smokers, Over Next 40 Years

The American Lung Association's annual report criticizes President Biden for delaying the ban on menthol cigarettes and flavored cigars, stating that this delay will result in increased addiction, disease, and death from tobacco products, particularly among Black Americans.
Over 80% of menthol cigarette users are Black, and these cigarettes are easier to smoke and harder to quit, making them a more attractive product to younger smokers.
Despite the federal government's delay, at least 190 localities now restrict the sale of menthol cigarettes and other flavored tobacco products, with some facing legislative pushback from state governments.
The proposed ban on menthol cigarettes is expected to save about 654,000 lives over the next 40 years, especially those of Black smokers.
However, the proposed ban has become a political issue, with some civil rights leaders concerned that it could lead to increased police interactions and criminalization of Black smokers, while others, including the NAACP and the Congressional Black Caucus, support the ban.