US Senators Question Big Tobacco Over FDA Policy Shift
Six U.S. senators have written to Reynolds American and Altria seeking details on lobbying and donations following a shift in FDA enforcement policy. The lawmakers allege the new rules allow unlicensed vapes to enter the market after the companies spent millions to influence the administration.
Six United States senators sent letters to Altria Group Inc and Reynolds American on Thursday questioning lobbying ties to a recent FDA policy shift. The inquiry follows a new enforcement discretion policy allowing the sale of certain vapes and nicotine pouches without standard licenses.
Lawmakers are investigating whether political donations influenced federal oversight to create a lucrative opening for tobacco shareholders. The letters were signed by Democratic senators Dick Durbin, Elizabeth Warren, Edward Markey, Jeff Merkley, Richard Blumenthal, and Jack Reed.
