The latest vape news is in – we’ve got new vape laws!  Drum roll,  please…

It’s been two years since the FDA released its first proposal of regulations to be applied to the tobacco products not covered under the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act of 2009.  Owners, operators, distributors and sellers have waited for rulings as the vape craze (and other non-combustible tobacco products) evolved into a billion dollar industry.

But it’s official:  all non-combustible products are to be regulated the same as combustible tobacco cigarettes and smokeless tobacco.

Rulings took effect August 1, and as far as we can tell, they are here to stay.

Products affected include:

  • Vaping products
  • E-cigarettes
  • Premium cigars
  • Pipe tobacco
  • Hookah tobacco

This is a pretty massive change for the community, so let’s talk about what exactly it means and the ripple effects we’ll see take place.

The new rules regulate how the vapor industry can do business.

  • Vape is now subject to all stipulations under the Tobacco Control Act
  • Vape products need FDA approval to be sold legally in the US
  • Products must carry health warnings– this means new packaging
  • Purchasers must be 18+
  • Products on the market after Feb. 15, 2007,  must undergo application for re-entry as a tobacco-delivery device.  This includes more mods,  tanks and e-liquid juices.
  • Any products that can be expected to be used with nicotine are being treated at tobacco products.  This includes e-liquids with no trace of nicotine.

What does this mean for vape shops?

Most products are going to be taken off the shelf until their applications are approved, deeming the product legal to sell.  This affects smoke shops all over the country,  so at least every is in it together!

This new ruling obviously has a severe impact on the industry at large,  business owners,  shop owners and employees.  Estimates per application range between $330,000 to $10,000,000.  The costs are exponential, and the time per application isn’t far behind:  estimates at 1,500 to 5,000 hours per application.

Some manufacturers are fighting against the FDA, but it’s not yet clear whose efforts will triumph further.

For now, what we have is the FDA’s final ruling on vape.  But not to worry!  The best vape brands are here to stay and here to help guide you seamlessly through the change.
For the latest and greatest on all things vape, and of course, your favorite smoke shop Fort Lauderdale, stay tuned into SmokeyNews!