The rules, more than a decade in the making, have been divisive from the start, with public health groups calling for finality and criminal justice groups warning they unfairly target them. black smoker People who smoke more menthol than other demographics.
The administration nodded to this reciprocation in Friday’s announcement.
“This rule has received historic attention, and we received a tremendous amount of feedback during the public comment period, including from various elements of the civil rights and criminal justice movements,” the Secretary of Health and Human Services said. Xavier Becerra said in a statement.
“It’s clear that we still need to talk, and that will take more time,” he said.
Groups supporting the ban accused the government of bowing to the order. Industry and election year pressures.
“In an election year, politicians should prioritize the people, not the profiteers.” NAACP Derrick Johnson, President and CEO. “The NAACP is outraged and disgusted, but we are undaunted. We will continue to do whatever it takes to protect and advance Black lives.”
“Tobacco industry arguments dominate the public health debate. There is no scientific research to support the continued sale of menthol tobacco products. Menthol acts as an anesthetic, making it easier to start smoking cigarettes and harder to quit.” ” said Executive Director Laurent Huber. Smoking and health initiatives.
