It seems like an eternity since we convened our national press conference asking President Barack Obama to issue an executive order prohibiting the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products. The AATCLC was joined by leadership representing priority populations, researchers, and national tobacco control leaders from Americans for Nonsmokers' Rights, NAATPN, Inc., Truth Initiative, and Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids.  

As the year comes to a close, we have not heard from President Obama and just this week the city of Chicago voted to weaken their historic "Buffer Zone."  Chicago was the first city to restrict the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products, putting the health of inner city children before tobacco industry profits.  This rollback is disappointing to say the least and there are important but not unexpected lessons to be learned as we move forward.  

With a changing and uncertain national landscape it is more imperative for city, county, and state municipalities to enact bold and strong legislation that restricts the sale of menthol and flavored tobacco products.  

As we close out 2016, let's enjoy our holiday season, replenish our spirits, and come back strong,  focused and more determined to get the job done. 

The AATCLC would like to thank all of the individuals/organizations who were signatories on our letter to President Obama and our many colleagues who made our press conference a success.  Gratitude for the leadership of Hon. Joseph Califano and Dr. Louis Sullivan.  A special thanks to TRDRP, Focus on Health, and NAATPN, Inc. for assistance with the scientific dissemination component of the press conference.  
Below is the full archived press conference.  

                                             September 13, 2016 Press Conference