Cigar Rights of America Commends Congressman Donalds for Introducing Legislation to Protect Premium Cigars

Washington, D.C. (March 14, 2025) – Cigar Rights of America (CRA) commends Congressman Byron Donalds (R-FL), along with original co-sponsors Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV), Congressman Nick Langworthy (R-NY), and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), for introducing legislation today to exempt premium cigars from unnecessary federal regulations under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This bill rightly distinguishes premium cigars from other tobacco products, ensuring they are not subjected to a one-size-fits-all regulatory approach.

This critical legislation aligns with a recent U.S. District Court ruling, adopting its narrow definition of premium cigars to exempt them from regulation. It also reinforces key findings from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) report, which confirms what industry experts have long argued: that premium cigars are distinct in their use, composition, and health impact. 

“This marks the second time Congressman Donalds has championed legislation to protect premium cigars from FDA overreach, and his leadership in this effort is a victory for premium cigar manufacturers, small businesses, and the countless American consumers who appreciate these handcrafted products," said Mike Copperman, Executive Director of Cigar Rights of America. "This legislation isn’t just about regulation—it’s about preserving an industry deeply rooted in Florida’s history and ensuring that premium cigars, enjoyed by Americans nationwide, are treated fairly under the law.”

CRA urges bipartisan support for this common-sense legislation, which safeguards not just an industry but a long-standing tradition of craftsmanship and economic opportunity. The premium cigar industry is a vital contributor to the U.S. economy and a cornerstone of economic stability in Latin America, supporting thousands of jobs, small businesses, and artisanal manufacturers. By backing this bill, Members of Congress are taking a stand against excessive regulation and ensuring that an industry built on heritage and responsible enjoyment can continue to thrive without unnecessary government overreach.

For more information, contact:

Cody Carden
Director of Communications
Cigar Rights of America
cody.carden@cigarrights.org