Several Arizona e-cigarette retailers have accused representatives from tobacco giant Altria of misleading them into appearing to support a proposed bill that would ban the sale of flavored nicotine vaporizer devices, which these sellers consider a significant source of revenue. The controversy highlights the high stakes and intense emotions surrounding the ongoing debate over vaping regulations in the state.

Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes has joined a coalition of attorneys general from across the country in calling for a ban on flavored vape products that target younger demographics. In a letter released in mid-September, the attorneys general urged the Center for Tobacco Products to remove Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS) with youth-oriented flavors from the market within a five-year plan.