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Largest-Ever Crackdown on Vaping Businesses in New York

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

A dozen businesses, including five in New York City, are being charged with violating state laws regulating the sale of vaping products in what Gov. Kathy Hochul is calling the biggest-ever crackdown of its kind in New York. Hochul's office said that investigators staged undercover online purchases to charge the businesses with unlawful shipment and transport of vapor products, a misdemeanor that can lead to felony charges in the event of future violations.

The companies are accused of illegally shipping vaping products via online stores and distribution networks across the state, with many of the shipments containing bright-colored disposable e-cigarettes and e-liquids in flavors designed to appeal to adolescents. State officials said that the widespread availability of e-cigarettes and vapor products poses significant public health challenges, with alarming consequences for adolescents such as addiction and damage to their developing brains and lungs.

Key Takeaways:

  • The state has charged 12 businesses, including 5 in New York City, with violating state laws regulating the sale of vaping products.
  • Investigators staged undercover online purchases to charge the businesses with unlawful shipment and transport of vapor products.
  • The businesses are accused of illegally shipping vaping products via online stores and distribution networks across the state.
  • Many of the shipments contained bright-colored disposable e-cigarettes and e-liquids in flavors designed to appeal to adolescents.
  • State officials said that 28 criminal charges have been filed to date, and 10 more are pending.
  • Additional arrests and arrest warrants are planned this week.
  • The companies targeted include Vaporush, ePuffer, Vape4Style, Beyond Vape, and NYC Glass 718.
  • State law prohibits retail sales of flavored vape products, as well as sales of vapor products to anyone under 21 years old.

Statistics:

  • 12 businesses have been charged with violating state laws regulating the sale of vaping products.
  • 5 businesses are located in New York City.
  • 28 criminal charges have been filed to date.
  • 10 more criminal charges are pending.
  • Additional arrests and arrest warrants are planned this week.
  • The state has conducted a monthslong investigation by the state health department and state police.
  • 38 criminal charges are being brought against the businesses.

Sources:

  • "New York Gov. Kathy Hochul Announces Largest-Ever Vaping Crackdown" (CNBC)
  • "State: 12 businesses, including 5 in New York City, charged with violating vaping laws" (NY Daily News)
  • "NYS Tobacco Control Law" (NY State Health Department)
  • "Retail Tobacco Dealers Guide" (NY State Health Department)

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