Iowa Sets the Standard for Vaping Regulation, Urges FDA to Follow Suit

Iowa vaping regulation FDA enforcement nationwide

Iowa has taken a significant step towards protecting children from harmful, illicit vapes by passing the vapor directory during the recent legislative session. The new law, set to take effect on January 2, 2025, provides the state with a clear understanding of which e-cigarette products are legal for sale and establishes an enforcement mechanism to ensure compliance.

The vapor directory aims to keep dangerous, unregulated vapes, such as those from Elf Bar and Puff Bar, out of the state. These products often feature bright packaging and sugary flavors designed to attract minors and may contain untested, potentially harmful chemicals. By creating a directory of approved products, Iowa has taken a proactive approach to safeguarding its youth from these hazardous devices.

FDA Urged to Follow Iowa’s Example and Enforce Regulations Nationwide

While Iowa has implemented a system to protect its children, illicit disposable vapes continue to be sold across the country, putting millions of kids at risk. The FDA already possesses the authority to regulate vapor products but must act aggressively to halt the influx of unregulated vapes, many of which originate from countries like China.

By following Iowa’s lead, the FDA can enforce its own standards and protect children nationwide. The overwhelming bipartisan support for Iowa’s vapor directory demonstrates that protecting children from dangerous vapes transcends political boundaries. The federal government must prioritize the enforcement of vaping regulations to ensure that every child in America receives the same level of protection as those in Iowa.

A Call for National Action

Iowa has set the gold standard for protecting youth from harmful vaping products, but the rest of the country deserves the same level of protection. The FDA must step up and enforce its own regulations on a national scale, putting an end to the sale of illegal, flavored vapes that target children.

The state’s vapor directory serves as a model for protecting children from dangerous products, and the FDA should follow suit by enforcing its approved vaping products list and cracking down on the flow of illegal, overseas vapes. Only through concerted efforts at both the state and federal levels can we truly safeguard our nation’s youth from the perils of unregulated vaping products.

Matthew Ma
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