Statement on the Departure of FDA Commissioner Marty Makary

Published on May 12, 2026

WASHINGTON – May 12, 2026 – The Vapor Technology Association appreciated the opportunity to meet with former FDA Commissioner Marty Makary last week and discuss the urgent need for real reform to the PMTA regulation and the implementation of a predictable and transparent, science-based regulatory framework for nicotine vapor products. While our engagement with the Commissioner was brief, we believed he was beginning to recognize that the current system requires substantial reform and that progress is needed to move more quickly.

VTA now looks forward to continuing its constructive engagement with Acting FDA
Commissioner Kyle Diamantas and whoever is ultimately selected to permanently lead the
agency moving forward. As it currently stands, the agency’s recent actions have not been
enough to keep President Trump’s promise to save flavored vaping. Our message remains
consistent: the United States can both ensure adult smokers have access to a wide variety of
less harmful nicotine alternatives and keep these products out of the hands of youth. Those
goals are not mutually exclusive, and responsible regulation must reflect that reality.

For years, VTA has advocated for a regulatory framework that provides clear scientific
requirements, transparent standards, and consistent enforcement against bad actors and illicit
products. American small businesses and millions of adult consumers deserve a system that is
predictable, credible, and capable of distinguishing responsible operators from those who
undermine public trust and youth protections.

We remain committed to working with FDA leadership, the Administration, and policymakers to
modernize the PMTA process, strengthen responsible marketing standards, and ensure the
United States leads with a balanced regulatory approach grounded in science, harm reduction,
and common sense.

Statement attributable to Tony Abboud, Executive Director of the Vapor Technology Association.

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