Vape Vote Matters in 2022, Especially in California
California voters will decide on a statewide ban on flavored tobacco this November. This means a lot when it comes to vaping within the United States because California issues tend to travel nationwide in short order.
Proposition 31 is a referendum on a 2020 law that bans the sale of most flavored tobacco products.
The issue is now going before California voters.
E-cigarettes and vapes have led to a spike in flavored tobacco use in recent years.
Proposition 31 would ban the sale of most tobacco products that have added flavors. It would apply to storefronts and vending machines across California.
Supporters say the measure is about protecting children and teens from being enticed by candy-flavored products.
The No on 31 campaign says that the initiative is an unnecessary prohibition on those 21 and older, saying, “It is already illegal to sell any tobacco product to anyone under the age of 21 in California. That restriction and the California Department of Public Health’s education efforts are working. Youth vaping is down 59 percent over the last three years.”
Some cities have already banned the sale of flavored tobacco, including Santa Maria and San Luis Obispo.
Others agree with that sentiment but are concerned that a statewide ban will create a new black market.
“I feel like there is going to be more of a black market." It will also limit customer choice when it is already heavily regulated by national and local governments.
Vote NO on promotion 31 in California this November.
