Biden’s planned ban on menthol cigarettes divides Black Americans
The Biden administration’s move to ban menthol cigarettes has the Black community split, with the ban’s supporters arguing it promotes a healthier lifestyle and its critics arguing it unfairly targets Black Americans and could lead to injustices and policing issues. The White House has heard from both sides of the debate on the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) ban, which could have a major impact on the tobacco industry. While its proponents say the ban will save lives, opponents warn of its potential impact on Black smokers who overwhelmingly prefer menthol cigarettes and include law enforcement members who warn it could put undue pressure on police grappling with higher crime rates. But questions have also come up over the ties between tobacco companies and the groups and big-name political leaders opposing the ban. The FDA rule could come as early as this week, after President Biden’s FDA had a year to issue proposed product standards to ban menthol as ...