The Tobacconist Association of America (TAA) has announced it has donated $50,000.00 to the legal challenge the industry associations have filed against the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) that challenge the deeming regulations.

The announcement mentioned an equal split of the funds between two of the three industry organizations –  the IPCPR (International Premium Cigar and Pipes Retailers) and CRA (Cigar Rights of America). There was no mention made of funds going to the third organization, the CAA (Cigar Association of America).

In a press release, TAA President Tiffany Rumbo stated, “This lawsuit is a wonderful illustration of the camaraderie and team work that exists within our industry.  This action will no doubt be a costly endeavor, and the TAA felt strongly that we needed to be proactive and timely in our financial support of this effort.”

“We are at a critical juncture for the premium cigar industry as we work to understand, comply. and challenge FDA’s regulation of our category.  The IPCPR has worked closely with the CAA (Cigar Association of America) and the CRA (Cigar Rights expenses of America) to form a coalition of associations to lead the fight. To have the TAA contribute towards our mounting of protecting the category is a tremendous gift.  IPCPR is extremely grateful to the TAA Board of Directors and their entire membership for this gracious contribution to the cause. The dollars will be used on behalf of the entire premium cigar and pipe category as we challenge the onerous regulations before us all.” Craig Cass, owner of Tinder Box in Charlotte, NC and President of the IPCPR

Robert Levin, CRA Chairman commented, “It’s another act of unison within the industry to battle this business killing and difficult to comply ruling by the F.D.A. The litigation will be very costly and the CRA appreciates this generous donation by the TAA.”

According to the press release, the TAA Board of Directors approved the donation in a unanimous vote following the close of the IPCPR Convention and Trade Show on July 28, 2016.