In a recent push to rid Arizona of what has been deemed a threat to youths, State Sen. Shawnna Bolick is spearheading legislation aimed at curbing the distribution of vape products designed to attract children. As noted by Phoenix New Times, the proposed bill would make it illegal for retailers to sell vaping devices that mirror school supplies, toys, or characters from popular media. Furthermore, the law would take a direct hit at the inflow of "illegal Chinese vapes."
Under the bill, SB 1367, wholesalers from out of state would need to present federal documentation to the Arizona Department of Revenue to prove the origin of their products. If unable to comply, their products could be "immediately seized and destroyed," as stated by Bolick. According to Phoenix New Times, Bolick has been motivated by the ongoing smuggling of vape products, which she believes is fueled by "transnational criminal groups" aiming to profit at the cost of young people's health.
Senator Bolick, who chairs the Senate Regulatory Affairs & Government Efficiency Committee, expressed her no-nonsense approach to businesses skirting the law. "Anyone who follows the law should support this," Bolick wrote in a press release. "Sadly, hundreds of vape shops in Arizona don't, and I expect their opposition. I have zero tolerance for businesses that act like the law doesn’t apply to them." This direct sentiment echoes Justin Harris, Vice President of the Border Security Alliance, who underscored the necessity of the bill to "close the vape loophole" and halt the smuggling, as detailed in an announcement by the Arizona Senate Republicans.
Additional enforcement measures would include the ability of state agencies to track and shut down retailers not in compliance with the new regulations. Fines for violations could reach up to $10,000 per offending vape device. In a statement obtained by Phoenix New Times, Bolick also voiced concerns about unregulated vapes laced with THC, hinting at a broader health crisis being smuggled under the guise of innocent cartoons and games.
The legislation moves forward amidst bipartisan concern for the well-being of children and the desire to rein in an ever-evasive industry. With its provisions set to significantly alter the vape market landscape in Arizona, SB 1367's journey through legislation is one closely watched by parents, educators, public health officials, and certainly, vape retailers throughout the state.
