In the midst of growing concerns and debates surrounding vaping and its impact on public health, significant legislative efforts are unfolding in both Kansas and Missouri. These efforts could drastically alter the landscape of the vaping industry within these states. Smokers Heaven Smoke, Tobacco, and Vape Shops, located in Kansas City, MO, and Olathe, KS, are closely monitoring the situation and are here to update you on the critical developments that might affect vape enthusiasts and the vaping community at large.
The Legislation
Both Kansas and Missouri have recently introduced bills that are poised to transform the sale of vaping products within their borders. These bills, if passed, would enact a near-total ban on the sale of vaping products, with a notable exception. Only products manufactured by Altria, RJ Reynolds, and NJoy would be exempt from this prohibition. This legislative approach has raised eyebrows across the vaping community, as it would significantly limit the variety and availability of vaping products to consumers.
Current Status of the Bills
As of now, both bills are in the early stages of the legislative process and have not progressed significantly toward becoming law. They have been introduced but have not yet moved forward on their way to each state’s House of Representatives. The passage through the House is crucial for any bill, as it represents one of the key hurdles before reaching the Senate.
What Happens Next?
Should either or both of these bills pass in the House of Representatives in Missouri or Kansas, the next step would be for them to be sent to the Senate of the respective state for further deliberation and voting. If the Senate approves, the final decision rests with the governors of Missouri and Kansas. They hold the power to sign these bills into law, thereby enacting the proposed bans.
What Can You Do?
The potential impact of these legislative measures on the vaping community and industry cannot be overstated. In light of this, the best advice we can offer at this juncture is for individuals to proactively reach out to their local House Representatives and Senators. Engaging with your elected officials now, before these bills gain any further traction, is crucial. Expressing your concerns and informing them about the implications of these bills on consumers and businesses alike can make a significant difference.
Stay Informed
Staying informed is key in times of uncertainty. To keep abreast of developments as they happen, we recommend following the Consumer Advocates for Smoke-free Alternatives Association (CASAA) or our social media feeds. Both platforms will provide timely updates and insights into the progression of these bills and what they mean for the vaping community in Kansas and Missouri.
Click the links below to contact your local representative and get updates on your state:
https://casaa.org/call-to-action/kansas-stop-a-big-tobacco-protection-act/
https://casaa.org/call-to-action/missouri-stop-a-big-tobacco-protection-act/
At Smokers Heaven Smoke, Tobacco, and Vape Shops, we understand the importance of staying informed and engaged with legislative changes that affect our community. We are committed to providing our customers and the wider vaping community with the latest information and resources to navigate these challenging times. Together, we can ensure that the voices of vapers are heard and considered in the legislative process.
