Six Democratic U.S. senators, including Dick Durbin and Elizabeth Warren, sent public letters to Reynolds American and other tobacco firms. Reynolds American operates as the U.S. subsidiary of British American Tobacco (BTI).
The June 4 inquiry targets lobbying activities and donations directed at the Trump administration. Senators allege these financial efforts aimed to influence U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations.
The investigation focuses on a recent FDA policy shift regarding enforcement discretion. This change allows specific vapes and nicotine pouches to remain on the market without formal licenses.
Lawmakers suggest industry pressure and political contributions enabled companies to bypass federal laws. The probe highlights ongoing efforts by tobacco companies to oppose public health regulations on flavored products.