As you should be well aware, The US Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) "Deeming Rule" regulating premium cigars and other tobacco products went into effect on August 8, 2016, despite significant efforts by organizations such as the International Premium Cigar and Pipe retailers Association (IPCPR), Cigar Rights of America (CRA), and the National Association of Tobacco Outlets (NATO), as well as scores of cigar makers and consumers.
The IPCPR is soliciting our assistance in advancing a legislative correction. There has been bipartisan support through the House Appropriations Committee to modify the language that would exempt premium cigars from FDA regulation; however, our elected officials will ultimately determine whether a premium cigar exemption is included in an omnibus bill in December. An omnibus bill is a proposed single document that bundles multiple smaller regular appropriations bills into one larger single bill that could be passed with a single vote by the legislature. Due to the large size and scope, omnibus bills generally limit opportunities for debate and scrutiny.
This presents yet another opportunity for us to make noise and get our voices heard in efforts to exempt premium cigars from this insane FDA oversight. Therefore, it is imperative that we once again contact our Senators and Representatives to request their support for this provision. Please click the buttons below to contact your elected officials - a draft letter template has already been created, so you will only need to complete each form with your name, complete address, and email to send. Your address and zip code will ensure that your appropriate official receives the communications.
ACT NOW!
