Michigan’s Proposed Vape Ban: What’s On The Horizon For 2025?

Well, Michiganders, it looks like our lawmakers are finally tackling the truly big issues—flavored vapes. Forget crumbling roads and skyrocketing living costs because the real menace to society? Berry Blast and Mango Mint.

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A proposed package of bills (SB 0647 2020 - SB 0654 2023) has been introduced in Michigan's legislature that bans the sale of vaporizers (which contain nicotine and shouldn't be sold to minors in the first place) containing fruit flavors and colorful marketing. The argument is that it's aimed at children, so I say: So what? Now, before you get all fired up and say: You don't care about our children being exposed and marketed to for controlled substances! Relax. I do care, BUT I also think this isn't anything new, and beyond putting a government age restriction on it (which they have), the rest is up to store owners, employees, and (gasp) parents.

Vapes Aren't the First Product to Make Flavors to Appeal to Minors

To prove a point, allow me to give you an example of a product intended exclusively for adults that uses fruit flavors to appeal to minors: Boones Farm. That's right, the "gateway" booze that many a minor in Michigan has consumed because they did't like the taste of real booze. Apple Pucker, Peach Schnapps, wine coolers, spritzers, the list goes on and on.

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Regardless of the flavor and packaging, the product in question, whether vape, booze, or cigarettes, should not be sold to minors. Period. So, while I understand Michigan's legislators' intent to stop the marketing that appeals to youth, will it be effective, or will teens, as they have for eons, find a way?

Proposed Vape Ban & New Harsher Penalties For Retailers Selling to MInors

If the package of bills is passed, penalties and fines for minors in possession of e-cigarettes would be eliminated, and retailers would need a new tobacco license to sell them. The new bill also requires that checks be conducted at least twice a year, meaning state-funded sting operations.

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If caught selling to a minor, stores will be slapped with a $1,500 fine. Do it again, and we're talking $2,000 and having your 'tobacco sales license' suspended for a month. If they keep selling vapes to the underage, expect to see a "FOR LEASE"  or a Spirit Halloween haunting that location soon.

Where Michigan's 'Vape Bills' Stand Today

Since being introduced in November of 2023, the bills have sat in the legislative limbo known as Michigan's Regulatory Affairs Committee. So, what does that mean for Blue Razz-loving adults? While it isn't imminent, stocking up on your favorite flavors might not be a bad idea.

Though many bills die in committees, this one can potentially move past regulatory affairs and into law. Of course, the first line of defense against vaping starts at the diner table. Mom. Dad. Take it from here.