Michigan’s vaping community is facing a serious threat as state legislators, backed by the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, are pushing an aggressive anti-vaping bill package. With a flavor ban and a massive 57% wholesale tax on the horizon, Michigan vapers and vape businesses must unite to actively oppose these harmful measures. The bills are expected to be introduced soon after the November 5 election, and the Consumer Advocates for Smoke-Free Alternatives Association (CASAA) is urging action now. 

What's in the Proposed Legislation? 

The eight-bill package is designed to limit access to flavored vapes and other low-risk nicotine products, while also making remaining products significantly more expensive. Here are the key components of the legislation: 

• Flavor Ban (SB 649): The bill would ban all flavors except tobacco in nicotine and tobacco products, which includes vape juices, nicotine pouches, and smokeless tobacco. For many people, flavored products have been crucial in quitting smoking, and eliminating these options could drive them back to combustible cigarettes. 
• 57% Wholesale Tax (SB 648): A staggering tax would be imposed on all vaping products, nicotine pouches, and smokeless tobacco, making these safer alternatives unaffordable for many consumers. This tax will not only hurt individuals but also crush small vape businesses across the state. 
• Online Sales Ban (SB 648): The proposed bill could restrict online sales, limiting consumer access to a wider range of products, which are often not available in local stores. This especially impacts those in rural areas who depend on online purchases for their vaping supplies. 
• Repeal of Preemption (SB 647): Local governments would gain the authority to impose their own restrictions on vape or tobacco products, leading to inconsistent laws across the state, further complicating access for consumers and businesses. 

Why These Bills Are Dangerous for Public Health 

While the proposed legislation is touted as an effort to protect public health, it could have the opposite effect. By removing flavored vape products from the market and increasing their cost, the state risks driving vapers back to smoking traditional cigarettes, which are far more harmful. Research has shown that flavored vapes play a critical role in helping smokers quit and stay off combustible cigarettes, and pricing low-risk products out of reach is counterproductive to harm reduction efforts. 

What You Can Do to Help 

CASAA has updated its call to action, making it easier for Michigan residents to voice their opposition to the proposed bills. Vapers, vape businesses, and harm reduction advocates can send a pre-written message to state legislators in seconds. You also have the option to customize the message and share your personal story about how vaping has helped you or someone you know quit smoking. 

Why Your Voice Matters 

The anti-vaping bills are largely being driven by misinformation and fear mongering. It’s crucial for Michigan vapers and vape businesses to educate lawmakers about the importance of preserving access to safer nicotine alternatives. Without your input, the state could see a significant rollback of harm reduction measures, putting thousands of ex-smokers at risk of relapse. 

Take Action Now 

The time to act is now. Visit CASAA’s call to action, contact your legislators, and urge them to vote against the proposed tax and flavor ban bills. Together, we can protect our right to safer alternatives and ensure that vaping remains an accessible option for those looking to quit smoking. 

Stay informed, stay active, and let your voice be heard in the fight against these harmful anti-vaping bills.