Oil Vape Pen, and the Battle with the FDA
Vape Pen Black Monday
So this is a very dark Monday for a lot of the Vape Pen and Ecig retailers in the market place. We are referring to this as “Black Monday” in our industry. Even though we are very happy the Infinity Dropp™ does not fall in the category of the newly regulated items, we feel very strongly about this issue. Our deepest sympathies go out to the businesses that are scrambling and struggling with these new regulations. Unfortunately, we already know of some shops that will be forced to close due to the new regulations. This is simply not right!
As High as 40%
Some customers will see an increase as high as 40%-50% in prices for some of their favorite Ecigs and Vape Pens, as well as their accessories. This will include states like Pennsylvania, California, Texas, and more. Even though this is a FDA regulation many shop owners are holding their breath to see how the states follow suit. As for the customers, be prepared to deal with some sticker shock after the shops adjust for the new laws. Also be prepared to become familiar with other products. Vape Pens and Ecigs may just not be equitable anymore to the average customer.
21+ the New Norm
We are now seeing a number of the states changing their smoking age to 21. This is further complicating the issue. Many states are doing this, like our home state of California, in anticipation of Marijuana going completely legal. Now in California we have Medical Marijuana dispensaries that are available to clients who have the proper state authorization. (Which in layman’s terms, is our MJ Cards.) This system has worked very well until recently, but that is a whole different topic for a new day. This direction towards legalization in many states is screwing up some of the other areas of the industry. This has become a real pain to the Vape Pen and Ecig dealers.
Another Government Blindside
Unfortunately, far too often our government is too far away from Main Street to understand that sometimes when you shoot from the hip, hardworking business get crushed. This is one of those times. As we move into more and more of a nanny state we find that our government makes laws which they feel is best for us, and they know better. Screw that! We are the ones here in the trenches and we know what is best. Far too many times these “shoot from the hip” laws only benefit the politicians and they destroy small business. This is one of those times. I’m not going to get political, but just remember this when you are heading to the voting booths this November. The business attitude is being replaced by the “I’m owed,” or “this might hurt little Jane or Johnny” attitude. Make no mistake these laws are intended to make some politicians and their cronies rich.
The Facts as they are listed
Below is a link to explain the new Vape Pen and Ecig regulations. If you use a vape pen or Ecig check out the link. You may want to become acquainted with the new laws before you invest anymore time and money into vape pen or Ecig accessories. How do you all feel about the new regulations? Will your favorite shop be affected? Do you think you’ll be looking for an alternative?
Link courtesy of International Business / By Susmita Baral / Times August 8, 2016
http://www.ibtimes.com/fda-vaping-regulations-2016-how-new-law-will-effect-vapers-2398830
- Papa Smokey
