Federal Actions on Illegal E-Cigarettes Important, but Long Overdue Steps that Require Further Sustained Efforts

Actions yesterday by the U.S. Department of Justice, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and other federal authorities to crack down on the flood of illegal e-cigarettes streaming into the U.S. are long overdue, but mark an important step in protecting youth and young adults from the dangers of nicotine addiction. 

Truth Initiative has long pushed federal authorities to take more action to remove illegal e-cigarette products from store shelves, and has partnered with officials at the state and local levels to remove these illegal and unregulated products from their communities.

E-cigarettes have remained the most commonly used tobacco product among youth for more than a decade, and educators report that vaping is daily issue that significantly disrupts student learning and academic progress. While youth e-cigarette use is at its lowest point in the past 10 years, nearly 40% of the more than 1.6 million middle and high school students who use e-cigarettes report vaping frequently, and the products used most often are flavored and disposable – virtually all of which are illegal.

Research from Truth Initiative also finds that not only are the overwhelming majority of e-cigarettes on the market illegally, the products available are also cheaper, stronger, and easier to access than ever before. These products – which come in kid-friendly flavors and are often packaged and marketed in ways that directly and purposefully appeal to youth – pose a significant threat to the health of young people. Nicotine can harm developing brains, and nicotine addiction can amplify feelings of anxiety, depression, and stress—a particular concern for youth already struggling with mental health issues.

These actions are an important step to protecting youth, but Truth Initiative urges federal officials to take further, sustained actions to cut off access to illegal e-cigarettes and ensure that retailers swiftly pull these products from their store shelves. Truth Initiative remains committed to protecting young people and supporting those struggling with nicotine addiction through our free, evidence-based EX Program.