Wisconsin's New Vape Law: Readers Fear Return to Smoking

Following the implementation of new restrictions on September 1st that effectively ban the sale of most vaping products in Wisconsin, a survey of readers reveals overwhelming opposition to the law. The new regulation, which creates a state-managed directory, prohibits the sale of any vape products that have not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). While state officials champion the law as a “measured approach” to protect children from harmful products, the vast majority of respondents to an unscientific survey expressed frustration, with many former smokers fearing the policy will drive them back to more dangerous combustible cigarettes.

Of the 84 responses received, only eight people—less than 10%—supported the new restrictions. Here are the main themes that emerged from the feedback:

Support for the Law: Protecting Children is Paramount

The small minority of readers who supported the new law did so primarily out of a desire to protect children and teenagers from the appeal of vaping. They cited the ease with which young people can obtain and hide these devices and expressed concern about the long-term health consequences.

“I see too many teens vaping. They have no idea what they are doing to their bodies and shops are not being held accountable for selling to teens,” said Lynn, 59, from Manitowoc County.
“We caught my 15-year-old granddaughter vaping. It (seems) easier for them to get and (hide), especially with all the fancy ways they are made, and they put electronic games on them. That, to me, targets the young kids,” commented Faith, 58, from Glidden.

Opposition: Vapes as a Lifeline for Ex-Smokers

The most common and passionate responses came from former smokers who credit vaping with helping them quit cigarettes. They worry that drastically reducing the availability of the products that worked for them will have severe unintended consequences.

“I am an ex-smoker (36 years as a smoker) and this is the ONLY thing that has kept me successful at not smoking. I am currently at 0% nicotine in just one year,” shared LouAnn, 51, from Fond du Lac.
“This is how I have been trying to quit smoking, and it WAS helping me after smoking for 41 years! Now I am back to smoking again because I can’t get the vapes that were helping me,” lamented Olivia, 52, from Wisconsin.
“I switched from traditional tobacco products to vaping. I’ve seen definite improvement in my health. As well as seeing a savings in money,” said Dennis, 59, from central Wisconsin.

Frustration Over Perceived Government Overreach

Several readers questioned the government’s focus on vaping, drawing comparisons to the regulation of other adult products like alcohol. They argued that the law punishes responsible adults and infringes on personal and commercial freedom.

“It’s stupid. We don’t ban fruity alcohol and brightly colored alcohol because it appeals to kids. Watch your kids like a good parent,” wrote Brendan, 30, from Appleton.
“This is government interfering in commerce when there are rules for sales to minors. Restricting adults’ access to these devices is not what the government should be doing,” said Khalid, 56, from greater Milwaukee.

Concerns for Small Businesses and the State Economy

The economic impact on local vape shops and the potential for lost tax revenue were also major themes. Retailers and employees described a devastating blow to their livelihoods.

“As a vape shop employee… this new law is a shame. We have lost over 60% of our business. Customers who have quit smoking cigarettes and moved to vaping are returning to cigarette products and are not happy about this change,” said Garrett, 33, from Richfield.
“This is really dumb, does nothing but push the market to bordering states that don’t have vape restrictions,” commented Colin, 23, from Osceola, pointing to potential revenue loss for Wisconsin as consumers travel to Minnesota or Michigan, which do not have similar registry laws.

Wisconsin is now one of 14 states with a PMTA-based vape product directory. While the law is intended to enhance public safety, these reader responses highlight a deep divide and significant concern about its real-world impact on adult ex-smokers and the local economy.

Source: Protecting kids vs. returning to cigarettes: Readers weigh in on Wisconsin’s new vape law

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.