FDA Proposes Drastic Nicotine Reduction in Cigarettes

The plan aims to curb smoking addiction and prevent millions of deaths, but its future under the incoming administration remains uncertain.

The FDA has proposed a rule to reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes and other combustible tobacco products by 95%, making them non-addictive.
The agency estimates that nearly 13 million smokers could quit within a year of the rule taking effect, potentially preventing 4.3 million tobacco-related deaths by 2100.
The rule would apply to cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, and roll-your-own tobacco, but excludes e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and hookahs.
Critics argue the regulation could fuel a black market for high-nicotine products and lead to significant economic impacts, including job losses and reduced tax revenue.
The proposal is open for public comment until September 2025, but its implementation depends on the incoming Trump administration's decision to finalize or modify it.