Biden Administration Delays Proposed Ban on Menthol Cigarettes

U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra announced a delay in the decision to ban menthol cigarettes in the U.S., stating that "more conversations" are needed due to extensive public feedback, including from civil rights and criminal justice groups.

The ban, initially proposed by the FDA in April 2022, aimed to address health disparities exacerbated by menthol marketing, particularly targeting minority communities. Despite concerns about criminalization, advocates argue it would save lives. The delay comes amid pressure on President Biden, who faces electoral concerns and a lawsuit from civil rights and medical organizations. The decision's timeline remains uncertain. Read more from CNN here.