H.R.2111 - To amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to exempt the premium cigar industry from certain regulations. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.R.2111 aims to amend the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, specifically exempting the premium cigar industry from certain regulations. The bill defines 'premium cigar' based on specific criteria such as tobacco leaf wrapping, filler composition, and manufacturing process. It references findings from a National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report, suggesting premium cigars pose less risk than other tobacco products.
Expected Effects
If enacted, H.R.2111 would remove premium cigars from the regulatory purview of the FDA under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This could lead to reduced compliance costs for premium cigar manufacturers. It may also affect public health messaging and potentially influence consumption patterns.
Potential Benefits
- Reduced regulatory burden for small, family-owned premium cigar businesses.
- Potential for increased business prosperity within the premium cigar industry.
- May allow for more targeted regulation at the state level, as suggested by the District Court.
- Could preserve a niche market and cultural tradition associated with premium cigars.
- The bill is based on findings from the NASEM expert committee, suggesting a scientific basis for the exemption.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Potential for increased health risks if premium cigar consumption rises due to reduced regulation.
- May undermine efforts to reduce tobacco use and addiction, particularly among vulnerable populations.
- Could lead to confusion regarding the relative safety of different tobacco products.
- The exemption might be perceived as preferential treatment for a specific industry segment.
- The definition of 'premium cigar' could be subject to interpretation and potential loopholes.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's alignment with the US Constitution is primarily related to the Commerce Clause (Article I, Section 8), which grants Congress the power to regulate interstate commerce. By exempting premium cigars, Congress is essentially choosing not to regulate this specific aspect of commerce under federal law, deferring to potential state-level regulations. The findings related to health risks also touch upon the general welfare clause.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).