Government Relations

Amplifying The Industry's Voice And Influence In Policy Making

CAA believes that the cigar industry speaks best when it speaks with a united, clear voice that represents the entire market and ensures that the cigar industry always has a place at the table on key issues such as regulation of tobacco products and taxes. The association works to keep policymakers constantly abreast of the impact of proposed laws and regulations affecting the cigar market.

Member-Driven Advocacy

CAA advocates for the cigar industry through a national network of legislative affairs specialists who work in statehouses and city halls across America to ensure that the rights of the cigar industry and freedom of its adult customers to enjoy cigars are protected.

We believe in having the best team of advocates in place with years of experience in their respective states or at the federal government level.

Our team promptly responds to and addresses emerging regulatory issues or proposed legislation that would negatively impact our industry. Our top priority is to advocate for the most favorable and timely outcome for our members.

Regulatory Focus

The Cigar Association of America, Inc. works with federal regulators to ensure fair and equitable treatment of our members and of the cigar industry as a whole.

Since the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) began regulating cigars in 2016, the Cigar Association of America (CAA) has worked with regulators to ensure fair and equitable treatment for its members and the cigar industry as a whole.

CAA has provided numerous comments to FDA on proposed rules regarding the manufacturing, sale, and distribution of cigar products, with the aim of ensuring that decisions made by the agency allow the industry to continue providing adult consumers with the cigar products they enjoy.

Progress Amidst FDA Regulatory Challenges

CAA continues to make progress with engagement and advocacy efforts with FDA on cigar-related matters on behalf of its members and the entire cigar industry.

Notably, CAA and industry partners recently won a landmark lawsuit against FDA which vacated the Final Deeming Rule for a defined category of premium cigars, effectively exempting them from FDA regulation. Pending appeal, the decision ensures that adult consumers can continue to enjoy their favorite products.

VISION. STRATEGY. RESULTS.

Our extensive national network of advocates is always ready to act anywhere, at any time.

Federal Priorities

CAA engages and educates policymakers and regulators on a host of issues that affect our industry. We are passionate about helping our members understand and thrive even in the current regulatory environment.

CAA monitors and tracks all legislative activity and provides weekly updates to our association members. The association works closely with association members, lawmakers, and other industry leaders to ensure policies will benefit the entire cigar industry. CAA also ensures policymakers and regulators are familiar with the unique nature of cigars. Cigars are a unique product and it’s crucial that a “one size fits all” approach isn’t taken when it comes to the regulation of cigars.

State And Local Government

Cigar Association of America (CAA) advocates for its members and the cigar industry at the state and local levels. With a robust presence in nearly all state capitols across the country, CAA monitors and tracks every bill that could affect the cigar and tobacco industry.

CAA is involved in all aspects of policymaking that involve cigars. In the current environment, CAA is focused on:

Protecting the cigar industry and the adult consumers who enjoy cigars.
Addressing harmful regulation and legislation that impacts CAA member companies.
Advocating for adult consumer choice.

CAA has a proven track record of success in working with legislators to pass or defeat bills that ensure the cigar industry remains vibrant and accessible to adult consumers across the country.

Highlighting Some of our Accomplishments in 2023

In 2023, we had a number of wins for our members, including defeating proposed bills in 14 states that would have banned flavored cigars, as well as increasing the number of states with tax caps, and providing a path to compliance for online retailers to collect and remit sales tax in certain states.