Ga. lawmakers push for more restrictions on vape products
ATLANTA, Ga. (WRDW/WAGT) - The Georgia Nicotine Vapor Products Directory Act would require the Georgia Agricultural Commissioner to make a list of what nicotine vape products can be sold in stores and penalize stores if they’re caught selling something not on the list.
Right now, there is no regulatory state body enforcing what is being sold in Georgia stores.
The bill’s sponsor, Rep. Houston Gaines, showed a vape purchased in Milton last week. The “Lost Mary” vape was banned by the FDA because of flavors marketed to children.
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“You want to make sure what you’re getting has been tested and approved. THC-laced and fentanyl-laced vapes have killed young people,” said Gaines.
The Georgia Department of Public Health reported 42 cases of vaping-associated illness in Georgia, including six deaths.
The bill would require stores would get two unannounced compliance checks every year. If a business owner is caught trying to sell a product not on the list, they could face fines or have their license suspended.
According to the bill, if a nicotine vapor product is removed from the list, businesses would have time to sell or remove the product from their shelves. The bill also requires manufacturers to allow those businesses to get a refund if the product status changes.
Dillon Gilbert owns nine vape stores in Columbus and Savannah. He spoke in opposition to the bill.
“This bill is a death blow to our industry in Georgia,” said Gilbert.
The American Vapors Manufacturers Association opposes the bill saying it would close businesses, cutting revenue for the state. The state’s 7-cent tax on vapes brought in $10 million of revenue last year.
The Monday meeting ended early because another meeting required the room. Committee Chairman Rick Jasperse encouraged of the Regulated Industries Subcommittee to use the additional time to do some research.
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