Advocacy in Action
Amplifying the Industry’s Voice in Policymaking
CAA ensures the cigar industry speaks with one clear, united voice. We represent the entire market in legislative and regulatory discussions, ensuring cigars always have a seat at the table on issues such as regulation, taxation, and trade. We keep policymakers informed about the economic and cultural importance of cigars and the real impact of proposed laws and regulations.
Member-Driven Advocacy
CAA’s nationwide network of advocacy specialists works in nearly every state capital and in Washington, D.C. to protect our members’ interests. These experts monitor legislation, engage with policymakers, and act quickly to defend the rights of manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and adult consumers.
Regulatory Focus
Since the FDA began regulating cigars in 2016, CAA has been deeply engaged with federal regulators to ensure fair and equitable treatment for our members. We continue to provide input on proposed rules and advocate for decisions that preserve responsible adult access to premium and popular-priced cigars.
Progress Amid Regulatory Challenges
Through consistent engagement and legal advocacy, CAA continues to make meaningful progress with the FDA and other agencies. Working alongside industry partners, CAA secured a landmark court victory that vacated the FDA’s Final Deeming Rule for premium cigars—temporarily exempting them from FDA regulation. While under appeal, this milestone remains a major win for the cigar community.
VISION. STRATEGY. RESULTS.
Our national network of advocates is ready to act—anywhere, anytime—to defend and advance the interests of the cigar industry.
Federal Priorities
State & Local Advocacy
Rapid Response Network
Federal Priorities
CAA engages and educates federal policymakers on issues from taxation and trade to manufacturing and public health. We track legislative developments daily, keeping members informed with timely updates and insights.
Our goal: ensure policymakers understand that cigars are unique products deserving of tailored regulation—not a “one size fits all” approach. We champion policies that promote growth, fairness, and consumer choice.
State and Local Government Advocacy
CAA maintains a robust presence in nearly every statehouse and local jurisdiction. We monitor, analyze, and respond to any proposal that could affect our members or their customers.
Our priorities:
- Protecting the cigar industry and adult consumer choice.
- Addressing harmful legislation and regulation.
- Promoting fair taxation and responsible business practices.
CAA has a proven record of advancing policies that strengthen the industry while defeating measures that threaten it.
Recent Advocacy Wins (2025)
By the end of Q3 2025, CAA secured major victories for the cigar industry, including:
Policy Wins
Defeating flavored cigar bans in 10 states.
Tax Fairness
Expanding tax cap protections nationwide.
Retail Compliance
Clarifying compliance for online retailers on sales tax requirements.
These wins reflect CAA’s ongoing commitment to protecting and advancing a strong, competitive cigar industry for generations to come.
