Donald Trump could dismantle nicotine restrictions introduced under Joe Biden
A potential regulatory about-face
Indeed, the current White House has launched several initiatives to reduce tobacco consumption, including drastically lowering nicotine levels in combustible cigarettes to make addiction less likely.
However, with Trump back in power, these plans could be called into question. Analysts say a priority for a new Trump administration would be to reverse proposed regulations on tobacco and nicotine products, which are seen as a hindrance to individual freedom and the economy.
A radically different approach
Under Trump, the erosion of health restrictions on tobacco products could accelerate. Efforts to impose a very low nicotine limit on cigarettes, as well as measures against attractive flavors in vaping products, could be abandoned or frozen indefinitely.
Some experts believe these changes could favor big tobacco companies by removing rules that imposed strict constraints on them. Others point out that this could lead to an increase in the use of traditional tobacco products, particularly among young adults.
Strong opposition to health initiatives
Historically, Donald Trump has demonstrated hostility toward regulations deemed excessive. In 2019, his administration already scaled back regulations on flavored e-cigarettes, angering public health professionals.
Observers predict that if Donald Trump takes office, he will attempt to reverse all of the Biden team's nicotine "harm reduction" policies, including removing or not enforcing regulations aimed at controlling nicotine concentrations or banning certain flavored products.
Challenges for the future of public health
The potential rethinking of these initiatives could redraw the landscape of nicotine consumption in the United States. While the current strategy focuses on prevention and reducing the risk of addiction, a more permissive policy would, according to experts, encourage an increase in traditional smoking and a reversal of the progress made in recent years in the fight against tobacco.
The scientific community remains on alert, concerned about the long-term consequences of such a political rupture on American public health.
