— What Uber says might make a comeback thanks to its returning shared rides option. Cue this year's version of speed dating.
Up in Smoke
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The Story
Cigarettes could take a hit, thanks to a potential new nicotine rule.
Pass me the news.
In April, the FDA proposed a ban on menthol cigarettes — the last remaining flavor in the US market (other than tobacco). Yesterday, the Biden admin announced a proposed rule requiring tobacco companies to reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes to minimally or nonaddictive levels. Only one other country in the world has taken a step like this: New Zealand.
And this is a big deal because…
It could be one of the biggest gov attempts to stamp out smoking in decades. Cigarette smoking is the leading cause of preventable disability, disease, and death in the US. And accounts for about 1 in 5 deaths in the country — more than 480,000 people each year. FDA officials say the move could protect future generations and could even help wean existing smokers off of cigarettes.
What's next?
By next year, the FDA will formally publish the proposed role. Then it goes through public comments and edits. The tobacco industry could fight the rule in court. But one former FDA official said the rule could have "the greatest impact" in "the history of public health."
theSkimm
For years, the gov has pushed to reduce cancer deaths. Now for the first time, its decision to take on Big Tobacco companies could lead them closer to that goal.
And Also...This
What's got Congress talking…
Bipartisan gun safety. Yesterday, senators from both parties released details on their proposed bipartisan bill on gun safety — after nine days of talks. The compromise expands background checks, and offers federal cash to states for red-flag laws (think: taking guns away from those deemed especially risky) or other crisis intervention programs. Plus, it closes a loophole that allows boyfriends and partners convicted of domestic abuse to still purchase guns. Last night, 14 Republican Senators joined all 50 Dems in a procedural vote to advance the bill. It's expected to reach a floor vote before the Senate's July Fourth recess — and would be the first major gun reform legislation in decades if passed.
…Oh and in its fourth public hearing, the Jan 6 House committee heard from state officials who said former President Donald Trump and his allies tried to pressure them to overturn his 2020 loss. While election workers testified about being threatened with violence.
Who's been busy…
SCOTUS. The Supremes ruled yesterday that state tuition assistance programs — funded by taxpayer money — must also include religious schools. The ruling was sparked by a case in Maine, where taxpayer money was given to families in rural areas without public high schools. That money was used to pay for tuition at public or private schools in other nearby areas, but not religious schools. Representing the 6-3 majority that voted to strike down the program, Chief Justice John Roberts wrote that it excluded "eligible schools on the basis of their religious exercise." Justice Sonia Sotomayor wrote in her dissent that the Supreme Court "continues to dismantle the wall of separation" between church and state.
…Oh and SCOTUS also ruled yesterday that certain gun crimes can't be defined as a "crime of violence." The decision could reduce the defendant's sentence by 10 years — as well as other federal gun cases.
Who's facing repercussions…
Bill Cosby. A Los Angeles County jury has found the comedian guilty of sexually abusing a 16-year-old girl in 1975. More than 60 women have accused Cosby of sexual assault or misconduct — dating back to the 1960s. In 2018 he was convicted of assault, serving just under three years in a Pennsylvania state prison before his conviction was overturned on appeal. The survivor and her legal team called it a victory, while Cosby's team argued it's a win for him because they didn't get the punitive damages.
Deshaun Watson. The Cleveland Browns quarterback reached a settlement yesterday with 20 of the 24 women who sued and accused him of sexual misconduct. Watson — who denies the allegations — is accused of harassing, assaulting, and touching the women during massage therapy sessions. He still faces a potential suspension by the NFL. The lawyer representing the women expects the remaining four lawsuits to continue on.
Where people are being told how to dress...
France. The country's highest administrative court decided that women aren't allowed to wear burkinis for religious reasons in public pools — since the gov's official stance says religion should be separate from public life. The French have strict rules on what can be worn in public pools in general: Baggy swim trunks and swimming without a cap are typically a no. But when the southeastern city of Grenoble voted to loosen the rules last month — allowing everything from swim trunks to modest swimwear — the courts cracked down on burkinis in particular.
Having us a blast. Except when it's bedtime and we can't sleep. One way to get a better night's rest? Good sleep hygiene. (Hint: that's not your pre-PJ shower.) Sleep hygiene includes everything from sticking to a bedtime and turning your phone off, to making sure your bedroom is cool and cozy. Sounds dreamy.
Another way to rest easier? Avocado's Green mattress. It's 100% certified organic and toxic chemical-free. So you can relax in serious eco-comfort. Plus it's made of breathable, cool, moisture-wicking materials. So you can kiss sweaty tossing and turning goodbye. Psst…don't sleep on their July 4th deals.
A fancy name for hair loss. Which also goes by male pattern baldness. And its lesser-known counterpart, female pattern hair loss (aka FPHL). Because this condition doesn't discriminate. Oh, joy.
Shedding strands (and thinning and balding) is common, and there are tons of potential causes. But most available treatments for women are decades old, or expensive — or both. And many of 'em just don't work that well. Enter: Revela's Hair Revival Serum. It can help combat hair loss, no matter the cause. With a groundbreaking, toxin-free formula that's been clinically proven to show visible results in as little as six weeks. Plus Skimm'rs get 15% off with code SKIMM15. Don't mind if we hair-do.
Skimm Picks
Here are today's recs to help you live a smarter life…
1. Celeb-fave, sustainably made footwear for coastal livin'. Complete your summer 'fits with these comfy, low-rise canvas sneakers. They come in 10+ colors and patterns (including some limited-edition collabs). And even though they're never on sale, Skimm'rs get an exclusive discount. Gnarly.*
3. Effortlessly cool shorts that'll be your summer go-tos. For everything. These shorts have a baggy fit that's designed for all-day comfort. Plus they're made from soft sustainable fabric that's equal parts cozy and stretchy. Psst…we got you 20% off. Go shorty.*
4.Detergent that's loads better for you and the environment. This EPA-award-winning brand makes laundry detergent that takes clean to another level. Using biodegradable ingredients, in plastic-free packaging. So you're actually green washing, not just greenwashing. Aaand today only, Skimm'rs get 20% off with code SKIMM622.*
*PS: This is a sponsored post.
Skimm'rs
We like to celebrate the wins, big and small. Let us know how your friends, neighbors, coworkers (and yes, even you) are making career moves, checking off goals, or making an impact in the community.
Getting through it together…Fernanda S (CT). She launched an initiative to provide better care for families who've lost pregnancies. Check out the clinic she helped to bring to the US here.
(Some) Birthdays…Karen Ballen (NY), Gabe Aprati (IL), Kalli Lawrence (TX), Melani Jaffe (PA), Emily Albrecht (WA), Sarah Scalia (MA), Jen Hayes (DE), Camille D'Amato (NY), Brittany Stubbs (DC), Mlyssa Sarandos (IL), Carolyn Schoenfelder (OR), Stephanie Mueller (AZ), Cindy Harendt (TX), Adaobi Ekweani (TX), Kris Kirk-Flower (CO), Pamela Carper (KS)
PS: Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.
Skimm More
Splitting your personal memories from your time at work might sound like a dream for some. We sat down with "Severance" star Britt Lower (aka Helly) to have her Skimm the show's plot, its main takeaways and whether or not she would sever. Watch now.
theSkimm Loyalty Program
Design: theSkimm
Winner has a nice ring to it. Introducing: theSkimm Loyalty Program's first-ever Sweepstakes*. We're giving away 10 swag bundles (think: a very cushy yoga mat, water bottle that'll last, and extra-soft t–shirt). Log in and head to the rewards section of your member dashboard to enter to win. Not a member yet? Sign up for free and start reaping the rewards.
*Terms and Conditions apply for theSkimm Loyalty Program Summer Sweepstakes occurring between June 15, 2022 and June 30, 2022. By joining and/or entering, you affirm that you have read and agree to the T&Cs. Reach out to loyalty@theSkimm.com for questions.
Skimm'd by Rashaan Ayesh, Melanie De Lima, Kate Gilhool, Xian Chiang-Waren, and Julie Shain
