Author: James Anderson

The Russian State Duma is currently reviewing a bill that would impose a complete ban on vapes, as well as nicotine-containing and nicotine-free e-liquids. The proposal, initiated by representatives of the Communist Party of the Russian Federation (KPRF), has been sent to the relevant Health Protection Committee. Deputies plan to include the bill in the agenda for the spring session of 2025. According to State Duma Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin, the initiative has garnered support from all political factions. He emphasized the need to hold consultations with the government to expedite the adoption of the law. This broad political backing suggests…

As vaping grows in popularity, Florida drivers are questioning whether using e-cigarettes behind the wheel violates state laws. While no statute explicitly bans vaping while driving, legal experts warn that careless habits could lead to fines or penalties. Is Vaping While Driving Illegal in Florida? Florida’s current statutes don’t explicitly ban vaping behind the wheel. However, law enforcement can issue careless driving citations (under §316.192) if vaping causes swerving, lane violations, or other unsafe behaviors. Key Legal Risks for Drivers How Florida’s Rules Compare to Other States States like California and New York ban handheld device use while driving, but Florida’s laws…

Smoking remains a significant public health issue, with millions of Americans still addicted to cigarettes despite the well-known risks. However, as we explore ways to reduce smoking-related deaths, it’s essential to understand the role that alternative nicotine delivery systems, such as vaping, can play in this fight. The FDA’s Proposed Plan and Its Implications Let’s start by examining the recent proposal by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to reduce nicotine levels in cigarettes to non-addictive doses. While this plan could potentially save millions of lives by making cigarettes less satisfying, it also presents a challenge for regulators. Imagine a…

The French parliament has approved groundbreaking legislation to ban single-use electronic cigarettes, commonly known as disposable vapes or “puffs.” The bill, which received its final vote of approval in the Senate upper house, makes France the second European Union country after Belgium to implement such a ban. Disposable e-cigarettes, which are particularly popular among young people, often contain high levels of nicotine and come in a variety of enticing flavors like apple, watermelon, and cola. These devices also pose environmental concerns due to their polluting lithium batteries. Francesca Pasquini, the lawmaker who authored the bill, celebrated the parliamentary victory, emphasizing…

As of February 2025, Pennsylvania does not explicitly prohibit vaping while driving. However, upcoming legislative changes and existing regulations create potential risks for drivers using e-cigarettes. Here’s how state laws and local ordinances could impact vaping in vehicles. Upcoming Distracted Driving Law: Paul Miller’s Law Effective June 5, 2025, Pennsylvania’s Paul Miller’s Law will redefine distracted driving rules. Key provisions include: Legal experts warn that frequent vaping—such as refilling tanks or adjusting settings—might trigger fines under the law. Clean Indoor Air Act and Vaping Exemptions Pennsylvania’s Clean Indoor Air Act bans smoking in most public spaces but excludes vaping. This means: Local Ordinances Tighten Restrictions…

Hong Kong is set to ban the use of electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) in all public places starting in 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to curb the consumption of these devices and safeguard public health, particularly among young people. The proposal, which will be formally presented to the legislature in April 2025, comes after the region already restricted the import, manufacture, and sale of e-cigarettes in April 2022. Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau emphasized that the primary goal of the ban is to protect youth from the dangers of vaping, as the popularity of e-cigarettes continues to grow despite existing…

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has unveiled an $83.5 billion budget plan that includes new taxes on nicotine pouches and vaping products. The proposal aims to align the taxation of non-tobacco nicotine products, such as e-cigarettes, vape pens, and nicotine pouches, with existing taxes on cigars and chewing tobacco. If approved, the plan could significantly impact the vaping industry and consumers in the state. Budget Goals: Lowering Costs and Funding Key Initiatives Governor Whitmer’s office emphasizes that the budget plan prioritizes lowering costs for Michigan residents. Key initiatives include continued funding for free preschool programs, school meals, and scholarships. The proposed…

A bill proposing stricter regulations on vapor products has cleared the House Health and Human Services Committee and is now headed to the House floor. House Bill 1069 (HB1069) passed with a 7-5 vote, introducing new requirements for vapor product distributors and retailers in the state. Key Provisions of HB1069 Under the proposed legislation, distributors must obtain a license before selling vapor products for resale. Additionally, manufacturers must certify that their products have a pending Premarket Tobacco Product Application (PMTA) with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Retailers must also register with the Department of Revenue, with separate registrations…

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has authorized the sale of 10 flavors of Philip Morris International’s Zyn nicotine pouches, marking the first time regulators have backed the public health benefits of this rapidly growing segment of the U.S. tobacco market. The decision comes after a thorough review of company data demonstrating that Zyn can serve as a less harmful alternative to cigarettes and other traditional tobacco products for adult smokers looking to cut back or quit. Fewer Harmful Ingredients Than Cigarettes and Chewing Tobacco While the FDA’s authorization does not mean that Zyn is entirely safe, the agency…

In a bold move to curb smoking and improve public health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has proposed a radical reduction in the nicotine content of cigarettes and other tobacco products. The proposal, put forth in the final days of the Biden administration, seeks to limit nicotine levels to just 0.70 milligrams per gram of total tobacco, a staggering 96% decrease from the current average of 17.2 mg/g found in the top 100 cigarette brands. The proposed rule would apply to cigarettes (excluding noncombusted cigarettes), cigarette tobacco, roll-your-own tobacco, cigars (including little cigars, cigarillos, and large cigars, but…