Read articles from United States of America

April 11, 2024 by daytondailynews.com

Our elected state legislators did the unthinkable. On December 14, 2023, Ohio GOP lawmakers decided to add a provision to a bill to prevent any community in Ohio from regulating vaping, smoking, and other nicotine product use and sales. The City of Columbus had just passed a menthol and flavor ban. There were community meetings to hear testimony from both sides. I was asked to testify at several of those meetings. One was so contentious, that when leaving, several Columbus policemen asked to escort me to my car.

April 11, 2024 by pewresearch.org

Marijuana legalization is gaining support in the U.S., with around 90% favoring legalization for medical or recreational use. Views vary by age, political party, and race. Support for legalization has increased over the years, with economic and criminal justice benefits being considered. Most Americans also support easing penalties for marijuana-related offenses. Currently, 24 states and D.C. allow recreational and medical use, while another 14 permit medical use only. About 54% of Americans live where recreational and/or medical marijuana is legal. In total, there are almost 15,000 marijuana dispensaries nationwide, with states like California and Colorado having the largest number.

April 11, 2024 by theguardian.com

Aggressive tobacco marketing of menthol cigarettes to Black communities led to high addiction rates and premature deaths. Despite FDA attempts to ban menthol and potential life-saving benefits, tobacco lobbies delayed the process for years. The ban could prevent hundreds of thousands of smoking-related deaths. Advocates stress the urgency to implement the ban as nearly all smokers start in adolescence, with menthol cigarettes being more addictive. The exemption of menthol flavor from a 2009 law has contributed to increased menthol smoking, particularly among young adults and minorities. Delaying the ban continues to have deadly consequences.

April 10, 2024 by usatoday.com

Zyn pouches, a non-tobacco nicotine product, are raising concerns about addiction, especially among young users. Marketed as a safer alternative to smoking, Zyn has lower health risks but can still lead to dependence and cardiovascular issues. The product lacks FDA approval, leaving questions about its long-term safety and effects on young non-smokers. Experts stress caution, warning against nicotine dependence and potential harm, especially for youths.

April 10, 2024 by thefederalist.com

The CDC and FDA seek more funding for tobacco control in FY 2025. Both agencies have been criticized for their handling of reduced-risk tobacco products and misinformation campaigns. The CDC requests $265 million, while the FDA aims to increase user fees and include e-cigarettes. Youth vaping rates have decreased significantly since 2019, despite agency initiatives. The FDA's exaggerated claims about vaping harm have been debunked. The CDC and FDA continue to focus on reducing youth tobacco use. Policy changes like banning menthol cigarettes could have negative impacts.

April 09, 2024 by slate.com

Antismoking advocates are urging Joe Biden to ban menthol cigarettes, which could improve public health by discouraging smoking. However, concerns exist regarding the impact on smokers who may turn to illicit markets or stick with conventional cigarettes. Political implications also play a role, with worries about alienating voters and potential legal challenges. Implementing the ban effectively is questioned due to limitations on flavored e-cigarettes and potential legal obstacles. Advocates push for action before the 2024 election, balancing the need for public health benefits with political risks and challenges in enforcement. The Biden administration faces complex trade-offs in addressing the issue.

April 05, 2024 by npr.org

Despite cannabis legalization in California, a thriving black market persists, surpassing legal sales. Challenges include high taxes hindering licensed operations, limited access to capital, and insufficient law enforcement. Illegal stores operate openly, with raids increasing in recent years. Consumers are drawn by lower prices and unaware of legality. The restricted number of licensed stores drives demand for illegal products. Enforcement teams target illicit growers, focusing on associated crimes. The Riverside Sheriff highlights negative impacts of legalization, fueling illegal activities including exports and criminal syndicates involvement.

April 04, 2024 by cnn.com

Civil rights and medical groups are suing the FDA for missing its deadline to ban menthol cigarettes. Delay in action prioritizes profits over people, impacting health disparities within Black and LGBTQ+ communities. The FDA's ban on menthol could save lives and reduce healthcare costs, especially benefiting these marginalized groups. Studies show significant health impacts, with menthol marketing affecting smoking rates and related illnesses disproportionately among Black individuals. Implementing a menthol ban is crucial for public health, aligning with cancer prevention goals and potentially reducing lung cancer deaths.

April 03, 2024 by cnn.com

The rise in oral nicotine pouch usage, led by brands like Zyn, has raised concerns about attracting new, especially young, users. Despite marketing restrictions, the product is gaining popularity, prompting a call for regulatory scrutiny. While seen as a tobacco-free alternative, health experts warn of addiction risks and unknown long-term effects. Nicotine pouches vary in strength and can aid in quitting tobacco gradually, but dependence remains a concern. Social media plays a role in product promotion, with a rise in underage use highlighted. Additionally, potential health risks include gum irritation and dependency issues, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making on nicotine use.

April 03, 2024 by marijuanamoment.net

Decades after the legalization of marijuana in some states, the success of this policy compared to criminalization is evident. The regulated market has led to tax revenue, decreased arrests, and improved product safety. Data shows no increase in teen use or mental health issues. The legal market has also disrupted the illicit one. Public support for nationwide legalization is high. Legalization has proven more effective than prohibition, marking the end of outdated "canna-bigotry" policies after a history of failures. Paul Armentano from NORML highlights the positive impacts of ending cannabis prohibition.