A significant change is coming to Texas’ smoke industry, where businesses will no longer be able to sell a large variety of vapes.
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The new law is one of the toughest in the country regarding vaping, essentially eliminating the disposable vape category until it’s from U.S. manufacturers.
Supporters say it’ll protect children, with lawmakers saying vaping is a growing health and addiction crisis among young Texans
The new law went into effect Monday, along with hundreds of others.
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Here’s what is banned:
- Advertising or selling e-cigarettes that contain: cannabinoids (including hemp-derived THC, Delta-8, and CBD), kratom, kava, alcohol, or mushrooms.
- Most disposable nicotine vapes, which are predominantly manufactured and filled in China.
- Packaging that appeals to minors, such as featuring cartoon characters, or packaging that looks like candy.
- Devices designed to look like toys, marker pens, or smartphones are also illegal.
Here’s what is NOT banned:
- Open-system and refillable vaping devices are not banned, as long as the e-liquid is added in the United States.
- Some disposable vape brands that assemble and fill their products in the U.S. may still be legally sold.
- The ban primarily affects flavored products from China, so refillable devices with domestically-sourced tobacco-flavored e-liquid are not restricted.
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Businesses that violate the law will face a Class A Misdemeanor, which could result in a fine of up to $4,000 and/or up to one year in jail.