Senator Burr Statement on FDA Announcement it Intends to Ban Menthol Cigarettes

Today, Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) released the following statement on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) announcement that it is committed to prohibiting menthol flavoring in cigarettes and cigars:

“I had a productive conversation with Acting Commissioner Janet Woodcock this morning about the FDA’s announcement. The concern I raised with Acting Commissioner Woodcock is the same I’ve raised for years: the FDA has yet to provide sufficient new scientific data justifying a ban on menthol cigarettes. I also remain concerned that after more than 10 years and $5 billion dollars, the FDA still has not released official guidance for reduced harm tobacco products. If the FDA is going to pursue a menthol ban, it’s only fair it issue foundational rules for the approval of reduced harm tobacco alternatives. Doing so is essential for having a robust discussion about the future of an industry that is vital for millions of American consumers and workers.”