SACRAMENTO — California's Attorney General Xavier Becerra is urging the federal government to address a series of proposals relating to new tobacco rules.
In four comment letters submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Xavier asked the FDA to look at several proposals that address "premium cigar" regulations, applying nicotine standards to all combusted products such as roll-your-own tobacco and pipe tobacco. He also proposed prohibiting flavored tobacco products as well as taking precautions against illicit tobacco products trading including on Internet and remote sales.
“Tobacco use continues to be a leading public health concern," Becerra said in a statement. "It demands a serious and coordinated response from law enforcement and public health officials.
“At the California Department of Justice, we are committed to working with our state and federal partners to foster healthy communities that promote wellness and prevention. As the FDA considers new approaches to tobacco regulation, we’re urging them to create a system that puts the health and safety of our families first.”
Earlier this year, the state of California initiated $37.5 million in grants as part of an effort to halt illegal tobacco sales and marketing to minors. The grant funding includes retailer training, youth outreach and license inspections.