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Menthol Debate Splits Black Caucus

Tobacco row erupts over exemption from cigarette flavoring ban

By Rob Quinn,  Newser Staff

Posted Jul 25, 2008 2:28 AM CDT
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(Newser) – The exemption of menthol from a bill banning flavored cigarettes is causing a rift in the Black Congressional Caucus, the New York Times reports. Some members of the caucus, which has strong financial ties to tobacco companies, argue that menthol cigarettes cause disproportionate harm to blacks and are pushing for a ban. Others say a ban on menthol would sink the bill.

An estimated 75% of black smokers choose menthol brands, and scientists believe that contributes to a higher rate of smoking-related cancer among African-Americans, largely because the smoother taste makes it easier for young smokers to start. Some black lawmakers have branded the menthol exemption discriminatory and are calling for the flavoring to be phased out—and for the caucus to wean itself off tobacco money.

Tobacco money has become less important to the Congressional Black Caucus in recent years as donations from other groups, including drug makers, have increased.
Tobacco money has become less important to the Congressional Black Caucus in recent years as donations from other groups, including drug makers, have increased.   ((c) Katie Dureault)
Philip Morris, maker of the second-biggest selling menthol brand and a hefty contributor to the black caucus, backs the bill with the menthol exemption included.
Philip Morris, maker of the second-biggest selling menthol brand and a hefty contributor to the black caucus, backs the bill with the menthol exemption included.   ((c) wetwebwork)
A planned exemption for menthol from a bill banning cigarette flavorings has been branded a sellout to tobacco companies.
A planned exemption for menthol from a bill banning cigarette flavorings has been branded a sellout to tobacco companies.   ((c) ~ezs)
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Menthol exemption harms the 'black community'
FinalCall

Study: Menthol levels upped to lure young smokers
USA Today

Black Caucus seeks menthol restrictions
New York Times

 
Congress • smoking • Philip Morris • tobacco companies • cigarette • African-Americans • menthol • Lorillard

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