The ban on e-cigarettes and vaping products will come into effect in Kentucky from January 1st, causing users and retailers to face significant challenges.
Justin Schultz, who attributes his success in quitting smoking to vaping, finds the upcoming ban to be disheartening.
“It’s the only thing that helped me quit smoking,” Schultz exclaimed. He shared his journey, stating, “I started off with 18 milligrams, which I guess is about two packs a day. But now, I’ve managed to reduce it to just three milligrams.”
Under a state law passed earlier this year, a ban has been implemented that forbids the sale of vaping products that have not been authorized by the FDA. Currently, there is a challenge to the FDA’s approval process being considered by the U.S. Supreme Court, but a verdict has not yet been reached.
Warning signs about the upcoming restrictions have been posted by stores across the state. In response, some customers, like Schultz, are choosing to stockpile products before the deadline.
“I placed an order six weeks ago in anticipation of this situation,” he remarked. “It’s unfortunate, but we have to accept it as it is.”
Troy Leblanc, the president of the Kentucky Smoke Free Association and owner of 12 vape shops, has experienced a surge in customers rushing to make last-minute purchases.
Leblanc mentioned that individuals who are unable to acquire products or wish to make bulk purchases have the option of conveniently traveling across the bridge to Indiana. He also mentioned that his stores might provide incentives to customers from out-of-state.
Leblanc and the Kentucky Smoke Free Association are urging lawmakers to delay the implementation date until June.
“We are requesting a period of six months,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of awaiting the Supreme Court’s decision. “Once their ruling aligns with the FDA’s position, we will proceed with the necessary measures to close down.”
The Supreme Court is set to make a decision on the case in April. If the FDA’s procedures are upheld, the ban will stay in place, potentially rendering other state challenges ineffective.
Leblanc, in the meantime, maintains a cautious but hopeful outlook.
“We are tirelessly collaborating with legislators to endeavor to adjust the date,” he expressed.
Kentucky vapers are currently getting ready for a new reality as the ban in the Bluegrass state approaches.