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BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana will start phase two of an anti-vaping law on Nov. 1st that will prohibit the sale of flavored vaping products without approval from the FDA.

Originally intended to increase taxes on vaping products, the law has shifted its focus from business to public safety. State Representative Paul Hollis introduced Act 414, which Governor John Bel Edwards signed into law in June. The law’s first phase, beginning in July, involved a sales tax increase and introduced restrictions to ensure all sales, whether in person or online, are limited to legal adults.

In the second phase of the law, all vaping manufacturers will be required to register with the Louisiana Alcohol and Tobacco Control.

The urgency of this law is highlighted by the 35 cases of EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping-associated lung injury) within the state. This outbreak has sadly led to the loss of three lives and affected both adults and minors. The Louisiana Department of Health has listed several EVALI symptoms, including coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, fever, and weight loss. EVALI cases have been linked to the use of nicotine, THC, and CBD vaping products.

While public health is one of the driving forces behind these new regulations, concerns have been raised about potential impacts on businesses. Vape shop owners will be hit hardest by the regulations with an expected loss in profits

Groups in support of vaping are pushing back against the restrictions, saying that the ban is excessive and infringes on individual freedom. They contend that nicotine vaping products can serve as a safer alternative to traditional cigarettes and other tobacco products.

Individuals interested in quitting smoking or vaping can receive help through FDA-approved counseling and medications. Support is available by calling 1-800-QUIT-NOW or visiting www.quitwithusla.org.