Behind Wisconsin’s Vape Ban: Lobbying, lawsuits, and lost sales
Wisconsin vape shop owners face closure and lost sales due to a state ban, prompting lawsuits and claims of big tobacco influence.Summary
Wisconsin vape shop owners are struggling or closing following a state law that bans most vape products, leading to lost customers who are now shopping in Iowa and Illinois. Owners, represented by groups like WISCOFAST, filed a lawsuit against the ban, though a federal judge allowed the law to remain in effect pending the case's progression. Tyler Hall, president of WISCOFAST, alleges that big tobacco companies, such as Altria, influenced the legislation, noting that Altria lobbied for the bill and has 17 approved products on the state directory. The ban was reportedly added as an amendment to an alcohol bill with minimal public debate. Shop owners fear the ban may push consumers back to traditional cigarettes, as the approved big tobacco vapes may not be effective alternatives. Lawmakers are currently considering Senate Bill 257, which could limit the current vape registry law to nicotine products only, excluding hemp-based vapes.
(Source：WKOW)
