Entries by Matthew Ma

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Indiana’s $2 Cigarette Tax Hike Takes Effect July 1

Indiana residents who smoke or vape will see higher prices starting July 1st, as a new law doubling the tax on cigarettes and other tobacco products takes effect. This marks the state’s first tax hike on these products in nearly 20 years. The tax on a pack of cigarettes will increase by $2, bringing the […]

Vaping Laws in New York – Flavor Ban, Age 21 & Tax Guide

New York, a global hub known for its dynamic pace, has also become a key state in the national conversation about vaping. As e-cigarettes and similar products gained popularity, the Empire State responded with a distinct set of laws and regulations. These rules address public health concerns, particularly youth access to nicotine and consumer safety. […]

Is Vaping While Driving Illegal in Montana?

As e-cigarettes and vaping devices have become more common, a frequent question for Montana residents and visitors is: Is it legal to vape while driving? The short answer is that as of 2025, there is no specific Montana state law that prohibits the act of vaping while operating a motor vehicle. However, this doesn’t mean […]

Vaping Laws in Montana – Indoor Ban, Age & Regulations

Montana’s regulatory landscape for vaping products, including e-cigarettes, vape pens, and e-liquids, has seen significant developments, particularly with new legislation enacted in 2025. The state is actively working to balance public health concerns, especially the prevention of youth access to nicotine, with the realities of a rapidly evolving market. Key changes include a new statewide […]

Texas Governor Vetoes THC Ban, Calls for Regulation

Texas Governor Greg Abbott vetoed Senate Bill 3 (SB 3) on Sunday, a contentious measure that would have banned most consumable hemp products containing THC, including delta-8 and delta-9 items like gummies and vapes. In a late-night move just before the veto deadline, Abbott rejected the outright ban, a top priority for Lieutenant Governor Dan […]

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European “Nanny State Index” Ranks Nations on Tobacco and Vape Restrictions

A 2025 “Nanny State Index” report offers a comparative look at how European countries regulate lifestyle choices, including a significant focus on tobacco and “safer nicotine” products like e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches. The index suggests that while many nations are tightening controls, approaches vary widely, with some imposing outright bans and others focusing on high […]

Mexican Vaping Activists Fight Constitutional Vape Ban

Activists and leaders of vaping associations have sent a formal request to Mexico’s Chamber of Deputies, urging them to halt a proposed constitutional ban on e-cigarettes. The initiative, which has already been approved by the lower house and sent to the Senate for debate, is now expected to undergo changes and be returned for a […]

The Rise of Nicotine Pouches: A Smoke-Free Alternative

As public health initiatives continue to drive down smoking rates, with some studies even suggesting Gen Z could be the first generation to end traditional smoking, modern alternatives like oral nicotine pouches are experiencing a significant surge in popularity. For many adult nicotine users, these products offer a discreet, smoke-free, and tobacco-leaf-free way to consume […]

Australia’s “War on Nicotine” Doomed to Fail Like War on Drugs

Australia is now waging a “de facto war on nicotine” that risks the same failures as previous prohibition-style drug policies, according to some academic experts. They argue that the country’s strategy, characterized by the world’s most expensive legal cigarettes and an effective ban on retail e-cigarette sales, is directly responsible for an explosion in the […]