FEATURE
Sociological Theory on the FDA
Deadline Extensions
B y To n y O t t o m a n e l l i I I
Many within the U.S. vape community are feeling satisfied about
the FDA Deeming Rule PMTA Deadline being extended. Others are
feeling rather suspicious about all that has gone into this process.
Therefore, was the announcement to extend the PMTA deadline a
PR stunt? Or, was it merely a press conference? Who did it benefit
most? Perhaps it was both “Sensible Consideration” as well as
“Strategic Distraction.”
One thing in particular that has been considered a major event
throughout the vapor industry was the announcement of the PMTA
deadline being extended four more years, which is just merely one
piece of the puzzle — in this case the puzzle is, of course, the FDA's
deeming rule and all that it requires. Furthermore, there are many
more pieces of that puzzle that were not addressed in that particular
announcement.
Basically, it is crucial to remember how the PMTA Guidelines are
not what makes up the entirety of the FDA regulations. Though
it is certainly one of the most feared components set forth by the
infamous US-based regulatory agency that has established itself as
a major social institution. In one sense, some could very well claim
that our economic stability depends largely on, or at least partly,
what the FDA decides and how the FDA operates.
It is best to assume any decisions being made by government
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agencies are in favour of doing what is best for our economy. That's
not to suggest this is a bad thing, yet America is supposed to be a
government for the people and by the people. Seemingly, perhaps
it’s more accurate to suggest a government for the money, by the
dollar.
For the people? That’s such a cute concept. If only it were not
just another expression in the continuous tagline of American
Advertising by Marketing the as a place citizens control. Cute, but
not cute enough to be realistic.
Let’s Take a Step Back for a Moment.
If you rewind back to that point in late July, there were many articles
released with very optimistic headlines. Whether it was mainstream
media or articles and blog posts originating from the vaping
community, it seemed to be the story was covered by publishing
hopeful headlines, the reactions were so uncharacteristic of the
behaviours usually displayed by vapers. Maybe it's the admiration
for the new Commissioner and most likely the very promising
comments he made.
Regardless, perhaps the bureaucrats were trying to see if they
can create different behavioural reactions amongst the community.
Which could mean many things. In one sense, we are merely guinea