Biden administration delays proposed ban on menthol cigarettes

A proposed ban on menthol cigarettes in the US will take more time, according to US Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. This decision, which has political risks for President Joe Biden’s re-election, is being delayed due to the need for more conversations with various groups and addressing concerns raised. Menthol cigarettes have been a contentious issue, particularly concerning the targeting of minority communities and the impact on public health. The ban would involve prohibiting the manufacturing and sale of menthol cigarettes. A menthol ban could potentially save hundreds of thousands of lives, with a significant impact on the Black community. The delay in taking action has disappointed supporters of the ban.