Author: Jake Miller

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has proposed a 32% tax on the wholesale price of e-cigarettes and other tobacco products, aiming to improve public health by reducing youth vaping. The proposal has raised concerns among local vape shop owners, who fear the tax could hurt their businesses and drive customers to seek cheaper alternatives online or on the black market. Currently, there is no specific tax on vape products in Michigan, and the proposed tax would make these products more expensive. Governor Whitmer cites the high number of high school students who vape as the reason behind the proposal. Justin Fleeson,…

North Carolina legislators are seeking to increase the legal age for purchasing tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, from 18 to 21. House Bill 430 and Senate Bill 318, both titled "Protect Youth from Harms of Vaping & Nicotine," were filed on Tuesday by Rep. Donnie Loftis (R-Gaston) and Sen. Gale Adcock (D-Wake), respectively. The proposed legislation, dubbed "Solly's Law," also aims to establish a mandatory tobacco retail sales permit for stores selling vapes and tobacco products. The bill is named in memory of Solomon "Solly" Wynn, a North Carolina teenager who died from vaping-related complications. Wynn's story and the issue of…

In recent years, a new form of nicotine consumption has been gaining popularity among young people: oral nicotine pouches. One brand in particular, Zyn, has seen a significant rise in usage due to its discreet nature and variety of flavors. As parents and community members, it's crucial to understand what these products are, the risks they pose, and how to recognize signs of use among youth. What Are Nicotine Pouches? Nicotine pouches, like Zyn, are small, white pouches filled with nicotine powder or salts, along with various additives such as fillers, pH balancers, sweeteners, and flavorings. Users place these pouches…