Newhouse Weighs In After House Votes To Ban Almost All Flavored Tobacco Products

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 210-200 Friday morning to pass a bill that would ban almost all flavored tobacco products.

The Reversing the Youth Tobacco Epidemic Act of 2019 would also require color graphics on the labeling of cigarette packages, depicting the negative health consequences of smoking.

Congressman Dan Newhouse, who voted against the bill, said while most in congress support efforts to curb youth vaping, restricting all flavored tobacco products goes a bridge too far.

"Certainly the health aspects are something to be very concerned with." explained Newhouse, "But we still are a free country. People have the rights and ability to make decisions for themselves."

Seven members of the Congressional Black Caucus voted against the bill. The bill would ban menthol in all tobacco products, including menthol cigarettes. According to thetruth.org, nearly 90% of all African American smokers use menthols.

"Particularly members of the black caucus were very concerned with the far-reaching aspects of not only outlawing these kinds of products for youth, but for all people," added Newhouse.

The bill now heads to the Senate. The president has already threatened to veto the bill.