Read articles from United States of America

January 13, 2025 by thehill.com

The Biden administration is preparing to reduce nicotine levels in tobacco products, an effort years in the making. This move gives the White House a final opportunity to regulate tobacco, after previously delaying a pledge to ban menthol cigarettes. Although the rule hasn't been made public, it is expected to require tobacco companies to reduce nicotine in cigarettes and other products to make them less addictive. The rule could be published by the FDA as early as Monday, but concerns exist that a future Trump administration could hinder its progress. Smoking is the leading preventable cause of death in the U.S., killing over 480,000 people annually, with more than 16 million Americans suffering from smoking-related diseases. Despite many smokers wanting to quit, less than 1 in 10 succeed due to nicotine's addictive nature.

January 10, 2025 by eastidahonews.com

Rep. Jerald Raymond is drafting a bill to prevent teens from accessing vaping products containing dangerous drugs like fentanyl. Valley County Coroner Scott Carver highlights an increase in teen deaths linked to vaping illicit substances. Despite existing laws, the rise in fatalities prompts discussions on further restrictions, such as online sale regulations and taxation to deter underage vaping. Lawmakers, including Sen. Mark Harris, are working on gathering support for the legislation. The bill aims to address the alarming trend and minimize teen access to lethal substances through vaping pens.

January 10, 2025 by eastidahonews.com

Rep. Jerald Raymond is drafting a bill to prevent teens from accessing vaping products containing dangerous drugs like fentanyl. Valley County Coroner Scott Carver highlights an increase in teen deaths linked to vaping illicit substances. Despite existing laws, the rise in fatalities prompts discussions on further restrictions, such as online sale regulations and taxation to deter underage vaping. Lawmakers, including Sen. Mark Harris, are working on gathering support for the legislation. The bill aims to address the alarming trend and minimize teen access to lethal substances through vaping pens.

January 10, 2025 by nbcnews.com

In the final days of the Biden administration, a proposal to limit nicotine in cigarettes is expected, possibly excluding e-cigarettes. The move aims to combat tobacco addiction, as nicotine hooks users. The FDA may need to cut nicotine levels by up to 95% to reduce addiction. This action could prevent millions of new smokers by mid-century. Previously discussed during Trump's presidency, it's seen as a significant step in public health. Limiting nicotine is considered crucial in reducing smoking-related diseases, with a potential long-term impact. Former FDA Commissioner Gottlieb emphasized smoking reduction as a key public health priority.

January 09, 2025 by washingtonstatestandard.com

Washington Democrats aim to ban flavored tobacco products including e-cigarettes, menthol cigarettes, and nicotine pouches by 2026 to protect youth from addiction. Critics fear revenue loss and increased cigarette use. Gov. Inslee's past ban followed lung injury outbreaks in 2019. With national youth tobacco use decreasing, some question the necessity of this ban. Only six states restrict flavored tobacco sales currently, with Oregon considering a similar measure. Lawmakers aim to combat the industry's appeal to children, with State Rep. Reeves highlighting personal connections to the issue. Superintendent Reykdal prioritizes prevention over regulation due to industry tactics. The focus is on safeguarding public health and deterring youth from harmful habits.

January 08, 2025 by nypost.com

The Biden administration is planning to enforce lower nicotine levels in cigarettes, aiming to reduce addiction. Critics fear this could lead to increased smoking and support organized crime. The FDA recently cleared the plan, but opponents argue it may backfire by causing smokers to consume more cigarettes. The proposal faces delays in its implementation, potentially extending into the next administration. Cigarettes are a significant cause of preventable deaths in the US. Policy changes also impact e-cigarettes, with concerns about black-market sales. Health risks and addiction are key factors in nicotine policy debates. Organized crime implications are highlighted amid discussions on tobacco and marijuana regulations.

January 07, 2025 by iowacapitaldispatch.com

Iowa delayed enforcing a new law on vaping product sales due to pending litigation. The law mandates FDA authorization for sales, with a registry to be published. Lawsuit plaintiffs claim federal preemption and unfair restrictions. The state agreed to delay enforcement hearings until March 5, citing a need for clarification and staff availability. The law, backed by tobacco lobbyists, was signed in May 2024. Plaintiffs argue the FDA's selective enforcement and limited approved products will harm retailers. They also claim discrimination between tobacco- and non-tobacco-derived nicotine products. Plaintiffs suggest incoming administration changes may affect FDA policies on pending applications.

December 23, 2024 by issuesinsights.com

The addiction issue in the U.S. is complex, with smoking causing a significant number of deaths annually. Public health policies hinder the use of safer nicotine alternatives like e-cigarettes. Misinformed lawmakers perpetuate myths about vaping, despite evidence supporting its harm reduction potential. Advocates push for a science-based approach to tobacco harm reduction and FDA reform under new leadership. There is a need for unbiased reporting and support for evidence-based public health policies to address smoking-related illnesses and deaths effectively.

December 23, 2024 by theblaze.com

The Supreme Court heard arguments in Wages and White Lion (Triton) v. FDA, questioning FDA's authority over banning certain e-cigarette products, crucial for smoking cessation. The Taxpayers Protection Alliance emphasized the need to prevent agency overreach and support alternatives that could save lives. The unclear legislation delegated critical decisions to the FDA, hindering market expansion and potential health benefits. The lack of congressional guidance led to a stifled e-cigarette market, neglecting safer options like open-system products favored by adult smokers. The FDA's narrow focus on youth appeal rather than overall public health raises accountability concerns, urging the Supreme Court to intervene for the welfare of many Americans aiming to quit smoking.

December 13, 2024 by cnn.com

The FDA proposed reducing nicotine levels in tobacco products to help people quit smoking. This step, if implemented, could have a major public health impact and reduce smoking-related diseases. The FDA aims to make tobacco products less addictive, potentially preventing millions from starting smoking and helping current smokers quit. Lower nicotine levels have shown to reduce smoking and withdrawal symptoms. While the proposal is praised for its potential benefits, challenges remain, such as the lengthy approval process and possible industry opposition. The move is seen as crucial in fighting tobacco-related health issues, although not all smokers may quit, given the addictive nature of nicotine.