According to a recent statistic, 1 in 20 Americans use a vaping device regularly. The popularity of vaping has exploded, especially in recent years.
In order to buy and use vaping products, there are a variety of rules in place. Because of the nature of vaping products, retailers may only sell them to adults. Minors are not allowed to purchase vape cartridges or dispensers.
But what is the vaping legal age? At what age are you no longer considered a “minor”? And how do these rules differ across state lines?
This guide will explore all these questions. To ensure you’re using vaping products as safely and legally as possible, it’s important to follow this guide.
What is the Vaping Legal Age?
In December 2019, Congress passed the federal Tobacco 21 law. President Trump signed this law after facing mounting pressure from both worried parents and tobacco control groups. The law took effect immediately on December 20.
The federal Tobacco 21 law mandated that you must be 21 to purchase vape products. This law was an addition to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
Because the Tobacco 21 law is federal, every state must follow them. This means even if your state hasn’t passed a Tobacco 21 law, they still must abide by it.
This also means that any business selling vape products must display the legal age to vape in clear view of customers.
The Consequences of Underage Vape Sales
Any penalties for underage vape sales will fall on the retailer. This means that any underage person who purchases or owns vaping products will not face penalties. Only retailers will get in trouble.
Some states with their own Tobacco 21 laws offered certain exemptions, such as for active-duty military. But because the Tobacco 21 law is now federal, these exceptions no longer apply.
The History of Tobacco 21 Laws
Several states introduced Tobacco 21 laws before Congress enacted it on a federal level. However, it has been illegal to sell vaping products to people under 18 since 2016.
This 2016 law looped vaping products and tobacco products together. This means that even non-tobacco vape products are included in any legislation passed in regards to tobacco products.
The push to get vaping legislation began quickly after products began to hit the market. Many saw the vaping industry as a sort of “wild west” industry. These people believed that the FDA needed to act quickly to regulate these products.
The Early Adopters
Tobacco 21 laws have existed at a local level since 2014. New York City was the first local government to enact one of these laws.
The first state government to pass a Tobacco 21 law was Hawaii in 2016. California soon followed, passing theirs later that same year.
In 2019, when the federal law was passed, 19 states had imposed their own Tobacco 21 laws. Over 500 cities had also passed similar laws.
The push for federal action reached a peak in 2019. This was because it had become a growing trend for teenagers to use vaping products, particularly JUULs.
While these laws cannot completely stop minors from owning or using these products, they can make them harder to obtain. That is the main goal of Tobacco-21 proponents.
Why 21?
The reason Tobacco 21 proponents chose the age 21 was to protect teenagers. Teenagers do not regularly socialize with those 21 and over, making them less likely to begin vaping.
Many considered the age of 18 to be too young. This is because some high school seniors are 18. They would then be able to easily buy and supply vape and tobacco products to minors.
Some also believe that vaping and tobacco products can harm a developing body. This means that for younger children, such as teens, these products may cause life-long damage.
While the effects of vape products are not certain, many believe it is best for them to stay only in the possession of more developed adults.
What Kind of Vaping Products Can You Buy?
Vaping products come in all shapes and sizes. These laws also apply to a variety of different vaping instruments. These include vaping cartridges, vape pens, and disposable vapes.
These products and laws are also not just for tobacco. Even though the law is called the Tobacco 21 law, it still applies to vape products across substances.
While tobacco is the most used, another popular vape juice is made from CBD. Many people find some serious benefits from using a CBD vape pen.
CBD Vape Products
CBD is a cannabinoid that comes from a marijuana plant. It is different from THC in that it does not cause a psychoactive high. Instead, it is believed to help calm the mind and ease the body.
Some people claim that using a CBD vape cartridge has had positive effects on mental problems, such as anxiety or depression. People have also said CBD has helped them deal with issues like chronic pain.
Though the science is not certain, there is anecdotal evidence of the effectiveness of CBD products. This includes vape products.
CBD is not a cure to any illnesses, despite the positive effects it may have. However, some may find that it helps improve troublesome symptoms. It is important to speak to your doctor before using CBD products to find how they can best help you.
Understanding Vaping Laws
Now that you better understand the vaping legal age in the United States, you can make more sound purchasing decisions. This will also help you know where and when you can buy vaping products.
To learn more about CBD and vaping, explore our lifestyle section. Here you can find all the tips, tricks, and information you need to know for a more complete life.