In a significant move to combat the hazards of electronic cigarettes, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin announced today that nearly 11,000 businesses across the state have been warned to cease the sale of flavored vaping products immediately.
These warning letters, issued by the Division of Consumer Affairs, are part of a coordinated, multi-state crackdown on unlawful sales of flavored e-cigarettes, vape pens, and accessories. The products, which often come in candy, fruit, and chocolate flavors, have been linked to a surge in youth tobacco use nationwide.
“New Jersey has led the way in protecting kids from the dangers of flavored vapor products,” said Attorney General Platkin. “These products entice children with bright packaging and addictive flavors, and we won’t allow them to undermine public health.”
Flavored e-cigarettes were banned in New Jersey in 2020 under the state’s Consumer Fraud Act, which imposes fines of up to $10,000 for first offenses and $20,000 for subsequent violations. Despite the ban, some retailers continue to sell these products, which often contain high levels of nicotine and are packaged to appeal to young consumers.
New Jersey joins several other states, including California, New York, and Illinois, in a coalition using warning letters, subpoenas, and lawsuits to enforce laws against flavored vaping products.
Consumers are encouraged to report businesses violating the ban by contacting the Division of Consumer Affairs at 1-800-242-5846 or visiting their website.