The Buffalo Community Development Committee meeting on June 17, 2025, focused on the potential ban of menthol tobacco products in the city. Committee members expressed strong support for a resolution urging the state to implement a ban, while also discussing the legal implications of a local ban.

One committee member highlighted the importance of the research conducted by Roswell Park, which has one of the largest collections of cigarette-related data outside the CDC. They emphasized the need for smoking cessation efforts, particularly among young people, and noted that many new food store owners in their district were open to not selling menthol products.

Another member raised concerns about the city's authority to enact a ban, noting differing opinions from the law department regarding the legality of such a measure. They expressed a desire for clarity on whether the city could proceed with a ban independently of state action, stating that they would support a local ban if legally permissible.

The discussion underscored the committee's commitment to addressing the health impacts of menthol tobacco, with members advocating for further legal guidance to determine the best course of action. The meeting concluded with a consensus on the need for an official opinion from the law department to clarify the city's options moving forward.