Local businesses say change to Iowa vape rules could shutter shops
Local Iowa vape shop owners warn new state regulations restricting vapor product sales could force businesses to close.Summary
Iowa is implementing new rules from a 2024 law that restricts vapor product sales to a narrow list of FDA-authorized or FDA-reviewed products, set to be released October 15 with enforcement starting November 16. Business owners say the criteria effectively cut 99% of the products they currently sell, potentially shuttering local vape shops. Tom Wall, owner of The Great Vape in Dubuque, says he may have to make difficult decisions about staying open if flavored vapes become illegal, questioning how specialty shops can compete selling the same products as gas stations. He built his business around tailoring products to individual customers, with about 90% of his clientele over age 35 using vaping to quit cigarettes. Meanwhile, Dubuque County Public Health executive director Allie White supports the restrictions as a public health measure, noting that nearly 90% of middle and high school students who use e-cigarettes prefer flavored varieties. Only 48 e-cigarettes are currently FDA-authorized for sale, manufactured by five companies, four of which are owned in large part by global tobacco companies behind brands like Camel and Marlboro. Nearly two dozen states already ban flavored vapes entirely or partially, and additional states have local restrictions.
(Source：TelegraphHerald.com)
