The Trump administration has withdrawn a proposed rule to ban menthol cigarettes, a move that health advocates say could exacerbate health disparities among minority communities. The rule, which had been in development since mid-2022, was officially listed as “Withdrawn” on January 21, 2025, according to the Office of Management and Budget.
The proposed ban was initially championed by the Biden administration as a crucial step in preventing youth smoking and reducing tobacco-related health disparities. HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra had previously stated that the rule would help “prevent children from becoming the next generation of smokers and help adult smokers quit.” The ban was particularly significant for Black smokers, who disproportionately prefer menthol cigarettes compared to white smokers.
However, the path to implementing the ban has been fraught with delays. The Biden administration repeatedly pushed back the publication date, citing the need for more conversations and feedback from various stakeholders, including civil rights and criminal justice groups.
The Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids expressed deep disappointment with the withdrawal, emphasizing the importance of eliminating menthol cigarettes to end what they called “predatory marketing” to vulnerable populations. The organization vowed to continue building support for the ban and urged states and cities to take action in the meantime.
Erika Sward, assistant vice president for nationwide advocacy at the American Lung Association, noted that while the withdrawal is not surprising given the change in administration, the consequences could be severe. “Lives will be lost because of it,” Sward stated, reflecting the organization’s frustration with the Biden administration’s failure to finalize the rule when they had the opportunity.
As the debate over menthol cigarettes continues, health advocates remain concerned about the potential impact on public health, particularly among minority communities most affected by menthol cigarette use.
See: “Trump Administration Withdraws Plan to Ban Menthol Cigarettes” (January 24, 2025)
