California voters approved the ban of flavored tobacco products, including menthol and flavored vaping products. As such, the state has banned the sale of flavored tobacco products. According to Proposition 31, the sale of flavored tobacco products means Californian residents will not be able to buy in-store, however they can still buy online and when traveling out of state.The Supreme Court stood aside to let this ban take effect, which was welcomed by many anti-smokers within the state.
What does that mean for those within the state when buying vapes? Is it still possible to do so without getting penalized? This guide will explain the history of vaping in California, and what the flavored ban means for the state and anyone looking to buy vapes living in California.
History of vaping in California
Along with the rest of the US, California was introduced to vaping on the marketplace around 2007. Since 2014, it's become common for many younger generations to opt for this as an alternative to smoking cigarettes. The history of vaping in California has been a fairly popular one up until now.
Its popularity has been growing for a number of years. However, due to the growing concern about teenage vaping and its health impacts, a flavored tobacco products ban was introduced in the hopes that this would help.
What is the California ban on flavored tobacco?
During the November elections in 2022, California voters have the opportunity to either approve or oppose a ban on the sale of flavored tobacco products. Referred to as Proposition 31, the voters approved this flavor ban by a hefty margin, which meant the retail sale of flavored vapes was banned as of December 21st, 2022.
The flavor ban bill was passed back in 2020, however many vape and tobacco companies collected hundreds and thousands of signatures from state citizens who opposed the ban.
To vape in the US, it's often dependent on what state you're in as each one has its own laws regarding vaping.
Can you buy vapes in California in 2024?
The vaping industry is one that you want to be aware of both as a buyer and seller of vapes. As the ban on flavored tobacco products has gone ahead, it's not possible to sell legally within the state. However, that doesn't stop online vape retailers from selling to California residents and residents of the state can buy vapes online without encountering any issues.
Of course, though, it's important to be aware of the legalities of buying vapes. All buyers should be over the age of 21 and should be able to provide their ID when they make the purchase.
The legal age to vape varies throughout the world but when it comes to the US, the legal age for vaping is the same as for consuming alcohol - 21!
It’s also worth noting that some California cities and counties may ban online sales too and a federal law prohibits vape products being shipped through U.S. Mail. There are also a number of other delivery services that prohibit the distribution of them too, including UPS and Fedex.
Which vape products are banned?
The tobacco industry was certainly pressed when this law was passed in California as the flavored ban has banned the sale of any flavored tobacco products in person. Whether that's flavored e-cigarettes or menthol cigarettes, they're both included and classed as tobacco product flavor enhancers.
Despite tobacco companies putting a hold on the ban for two years, it still came into effect at the end of 2022. This ban also applies to nicotine-free e-liquids that have tobacco flavoring. California is the second state to ban the use of flavored e-cigarettes, flavored cigars, and flavored cigarettes with Massachusetts being the first.
While online sales of vaping products are still available to California’s residents, it does make it difficult for some sellers to fulfill orders to the state of California. This ban includes any areas in California from Los Angeles county to San Francisco.
What are the alternatives for California vapers?
Adult vapers are able to purchase their flavored vape products online. Proposition 31 is only in place for in-person stores and vending machines.
As a vape user in the state of California, as of now you won’t find any flavored vapes being sold. If you like flavored vapes, then it's worth finding your next vape products online. If you're the type of person who only buys in-store, then you'll find it difficult to buy any in California.
The other alternative is to travel out of state and purchase vapes in a state where they legally sell vapes and electronic cigarettes. There's no penalty for those buying a tobacco product or flavored vape outside of the state and then bringing them back into California for personal consumption.
Where to buy vape devices online?
If you're worried that you won't be able to get your electronic cigarettes in person, never fear because there are ample options online. With the popularity of vape juice and vaping increasing, many online shops have popped up and therefore online sales have skyrocketed as a result.
To get disposable vapes delivered, you can find all of the disposable vape devices here at TheSmokyBox. TheSmokyBox offers a variety of vape brands like Fume, HQD, Wave, Tyson Heavyweight, Fire Boost, and Raz to name but a few.
To buy mail disposable vapes, you can get 15% off your first order when you become a SmokyBox member. Not only that but our members get free deliveries for US customers who spend over $50 online.
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Buying vapes in California FAQs
It may be worth keeping an eye on your own state laws and any laws surrounding vaping that could affect your ability to buy as a vape user in the future. Here are a few FAQs for those who may still have questions about vaping in California.
Where can you vape in California?
There are a number of prohibited places in California where you’re unable to vape freely. These include inside any bars, restaurants or other enclosed workspaces. Some will also ban vapes from being used outside too, so it’s worth checking wherever you go.
How old do you have to be to vape in California in 2024?
To be able to vape in California in 2024, you need to be at the legal age of 21 years old. Just like smoking or consuming alcohol, the legal age remains the same.
Can you take a vape on a plane to California?
If you want to take a vape on a plane, it's important to note that you won't be able to use it. Just like smoking, vaping is banned for use on a plane so don't be tempted to use it while on board. The consequences could be quite severe!
To take a vape on a cruise, you'll want to check with the cruise line first to understand the policy around smoking and vaping. You'll then want to check once you're on board where the designated vaping spots are, on this particular ship.
