Author: moonswamp

Proposed Bill Includes Public Vape Ban, Phased Flavor Restrictions Hong Kong is moving forward with stricter tobacco control measures, including a ban on public vaping and restrictions on flavored cigarettes, with officials expressing confidence that the new rules will not negatively impact the city's tourism sector. Dr. David Lam, a legislator and doctor, emphasized that similar public health measures are common in major global cities. "If we want to be known globally, is it better to be called a smoking city or a health-conscious city? I think being a healthy city is much better," Lam stated, dismissing concerns about tourism…

Uzbekistan's Senate has approved a new law establishing a ban on the circulation of certain tobacco and nicotine products, specifically targeting electronic cigarettes, liquids, and tobacco heating systems. The law aims to combat the growing illegal trade and use of these products, particularly among youth. Amendments to the Criminal Code and Code of Administrative Liability introduce penalties for the illegal production, storage, sale, import, or export of these banned items. However, the legislation includes a provision allowing for potential exemption from liability for individuals who voluntarily report offenses and surrender the prohibited products. Senators stated the law prioritizes protecting citizens'…

Louisiana lawmakers are considering a significant change to the state's taxation of vapor products, which could lead to higher prices for consumers and increased revenue for public services. House Bill 517, sponsored by Rep. Ken Brass (D-Vacherie), proposes a shift from the current flat rate of 15 cents per milliliter of nicotine liquid to a 33% tax on the invoice price of these products. Brass presented the bill to the House Ways and Means Committee as a health initiative aimed at curbing youth vaping while also raising funds for state programs, including public safety. The committee narrowly passed the bill…

Mississippi is gearing up to enforce new regulations on vape products, with the signing of House Bill 916 into law by the Governor. The law, set to take effect later this year, is expected to significantly reduce the number of vape products that can be legally sold in the state. Starting October 1st, the Commissioner of Revenue will provide a directory of authorized products, and retailers will have a 60-day window to sell or remove any unauthorized items from their inventory. Vape Plus District Manager Alan Fortin expresses concern over the impact on their business, estimating that over 50% of…

A federal judge in Florida has ruled that key claims in two class action lawsuits against Philip Morris and its subsidiary Swedish Match, the makers of Zyn nicotine pouches, can move forward. The lawsuits allege the companies deceptively market Zyn, particularly to young people, while downplaying addiction risks. Court Upholds Core Allegations In a March 19 decision, U.S. District Judge William P. Dimitrouleas largely denied the defendants' motion to dismiss. While a claim of fraudulent concealment was dismissed for lacking sufficient detail (with plaintiffs given a chance to amend), the court upheld significant allegations. These include claims related to design…

The Tennessee legislature has passed a bill that imposes new taxes on vape products and requires a registry of FDA-approved vaping devices. The House approved the Republican-backed bill on Thursday, which includes several amendments accepted by the Senate. Key Provisions Legislative Intent and Next Steps Senator Ken Yager and Representative David Hawk introduced the bill to curb youth vaping and ensure product safety. Despite concerns from vape shop owners about potential negative impacts on businesses, the bill is now headed to Governor Bill Lee for final approval.

The Alabama House Ways and Means General Fund Committee has passed HB529, a bill introduced by state Rep. David Faulkner (R-District 46) that seeks to impose an additional tax on the sale of "consumable vapor products" in the state at a rate of 10 cents per milliliter. Consumers would pay the cost of the tax in addition to the existing Alabama sales tax. Under Alabama law, a consumable vapor product includes "any nicotine liquid solution or other material containing nicotine that is depleted when used as a vapor product." The bill also outlines that 50 percent of the funds collected…

The Texas Senate State Affairs Committee recently held a hearing to discuss a series of bills aimed at regulating the sale, distribution, and marketing of e-cigarette products. The debate centered around the growing concern over the appeal of these products to minors and the influx of illegal vape products from China. Senate Bill (SB) 1698, authored by Sen. Tan Parker (R-Flower Mound), proposes the creation of an "e-cigarette directory" to ensure that manufacturers comply with U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) standards and that out-of-state manufacturers and importers adhere to Texas law. Parker emphasized the urgency of addressing the issue,…

Spain has officially implemented a new taxation system for vaping products as of April 1, 2025. This landmark legislation significantly increases the cost of vaping devices and related products throughout most of the country, aligning Spanish regulations with broader European standards. Tax Structure and Price Impacts The new tax establishes a tiered pricing system based on nicotine concentration. Liquids containing less than 15 mg/ml of nicotine face a €0.15/ml tax plus VAT, while products with higher nicotine concentrations will be taxed at €0.20/ml plus VAT. This means a standard 100ml container with 5 mg/ml nicotine concentration will cost an additional…

Electronic cigarettes have gained significant popularity as an alternative to traditional tobacco products. However, transporting these devices across international borders requires careful consideration of local regulations. Different countries enforce various rules regarding vape imports, with some imposing serious penalties for violations. Understanding Basic Vape Transportation Regulations Most countries permit travelers to carry electronic cigarettes for personal use, but specific limitations apply. Current standard regulations typically allow: These restrictions aim to prevent commercial distribution disguised as personal items. Regulations frequently change, so checking current rules before traveling remains essential for avoiding potential legal issues. Countries With Complete Vape Import Bans While…