Press Release: Court Ruling Temporarily Blocks FDA’s Authority to Regulate Premium Cigars

September 2023 — Washington, D.C.

In a major legal win for the premium cigar industry, the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia has temporarily blocked the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) authority to regulate premium cigars. The decision, handed down on August 9, 2023, delivers a much-needed reprieve for cigar producers, retailers, and enthusiasts, many of whom have long opposed the FDA’s attempts to impose broad regulations on premium tobacco products.

The ruling comes after years of litigation in which the cigar industry contended that the FDA acted arbitrarily by not considering data that highlights the distinct consumption patterns and lower health risks associated with premium cigars when compared to other tobacco products, like cigarettes. By vacating the FDA’s authority, the court recognized the need for more specific regulations that account for the unique nature of premium cigars.

This ruling provides a temporary halt to FDA-imposed regulations, including requirements for health warnings and premarket reviews, giving the industry a moment to breathe. However, the future remains uncertain as the FDA may appeal the decision or attempt to craft a new regulation that specifically targets premium cigars.

A Victory for the Premium Cigar Industry

Premium cigar manufacturers have long argued that their products are fundamentally different from mass-market tobacco products like cigarettes and should not be subjected to the same regulatory burdens. Advocacy groups such as Cigar Rights of America (CRA) have been at the forefront of this legal battle, challenging the FDA’s sweeping approach. This victory is a testament to the relentless advocacy efforts that have sought to protect premium cigars from inappropriate regulation.

As a premium cigar producer based in Estelí, Nicaragua, Leaf by Ramsey welcomes this ruling as a win for the entire industry. The decision not only preserves the rich traditions of premium cigar production but also protects the livelihoods of small-scale farmers and artisans who rely on this craft.

“We owe a great deal of gratitude to organizations like Cigar Rights of America for their tireless work in defending our industry,” said Ramsey Wray, founder of Leaf by Ramsey. “This ruling is a step in the right direction, ensuring that premium cigars—handcrafted and enjoyed responsibly—are treated fairly under the law and not lumped together with other tobacco products.”

What’s Next for the Industry?

While this ruling offers significant relief, it may not be the end of the road. The FDA could potentially appeal the decision or work to create a cigar-specific regulation. Nonetheless, the court’s ruling reinforces the need for a more tailored regulatory approach that considers the unique characteristics of premium cigars.

For now, the premium cigar industry celebrates this victory and continues to advocate for a regulatory framework that respects the craftsmanship and tradition behind premium tobacco products. Leaf by Ramsey and others in the industry will continue to monitor developments closely as the legal battle unfolds.

Sources:

    •    Public Health Law Center

    •    Cigar Rights of America

    •    Cigar Aficionado

Contact Information:

Leaf by Ramsey®

Email: info@leafbyramsey.com

Phone: +505 5768 4927

Website: www.leafbyramsey.com