Hathaway and Orr: Maryland must end the sale of flavored tobacco

Every year, 7,500 Marylanders die due to smoking-related illnesses – the leading cause of preventable death in the state. Unfortunately, there is a significant racial disparity among these deaths: Black Americans are more likely to die from tobacco-related causes than any other race or ethnic group. Flavored tobacco products and, in particular, menthol cigarettes are a major contributor to this disparity. The Maryland General Assembly can save lives and end this racial health inequity, benefiting our economy. It’s time they seize this opportunity and right this wrong.