US Tobacco & Vape Law Roundup: State Actions in September 2025

Tobacco and vaping regulations are in a constant state of flux across the United States, with local, state, and federal bodies continually reviewing and updating laws. This monthly roundup from Convenience Store News highlights the latest proposals and approved changes impacting the industry, from age restrictions and flavor bans to new taxes and retail permit moratoriums.

Arizona

Phoenix — As of September 26, Arizona’s state law has been updated to align with federal regulations, officially setting the minimum age for purchasing tobacco products, including vapes, at 21. This change brings the state into full compliance with the federal “Tobacco 21” law, which was enacted in 2019.

California

Riverside — Following an eight-month police investigation that uncovered illegal sales of tobacco, cannabis, and other substances, the Riverside City Council voted in mid-September to enact a temporary 45-day moratorium on the approval of any new tobacco retail permits. The pause will not affect existing businesses seeking to renew their licenses.

Colorado

Eagle — The Eagle Town Council has set an effective date of January 1, 2026, for its ban on flavored tobacco products, which was passed in August. Eagle is now the 14th municipality in Colorado to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco and vape products, joining a growing list that includes Denver, Boulder, Aspen, and Breckenridge.

Maryland

Annapolis — State courts and regulators have moved to close what some considered a “hemp loophole.” On September 9, the Appellate Court of Maryland affirmed that the state’s cannabis law is valid and that intoxicating hemp-derived cannabinoids like Delta-8 and Delta-10 THC were never legal for general sale. The Alcohol, Tobacco, and Cannabis Commission (ATCC) issued a statewide warning that gas stations, vape shops, and convenience stores can no longer sell high-THC hemp products without a proper cannabis license.

Michigan

Lansing — A new bill has been introduced to update Michigan’s tax codes for tobacco and nicotine products. The legislation seeks to expand the definition of regulated products to include alternative nicotine products and authorized vapor products, and would apply a 32% tax—matching the current rate for other tobacco products—to these newly defined items. The bill also addresses taxation and licensing requirements.

New Jersey

Sea Bright — The Sea Bright Borough Council has adopted an ordinance to prohibit the operation of all tobacco establishments and vape shops within its boundaries. The ban, which also covers the sale of THC products, was introduced in July, had a public hearing in August, and took effect immediately upon passage.

Virginia

Fairmont — The city council has updated its local code regarding the possession of tobacco or vape products by minors to align with recent changes in state law. During its 2024 session, the state legislature decriminalized simple possession for minors while simultaneously increasing penalties for adults who sell tobacco and vape products to underage individuals and adding stricter ID card requirements for sales.

Wisconsin

Madison — A new bill has been introduced that would revise the definition of “cigarette” to create two distinct categories with different tax rates. Products intended for smoking by burning tobacco would be taxed at the current rate of $2.52 per pack, while products that heat tobacco without combustion (heated tobacco products, excluding vapor products) would be taxed at a lower rate of $1.26 per pack.

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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.