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Vaping industry association suffers legal defeat in challenge to fresh regulation in Wisconsin

Regulations prohibit the vast majority of vape goods, resulting in potential heavy penalties for merchants dealing in these items.

Vaping industry association in Wisconsin suffers court defeat over fresh regulations
Vaping industry association in Wisconsin suffers court defeat over fresh regulations

In a recent turn of events, new vape product regulations in Wisconsin have taken effect, causing a significant impact on local vape shops and their customers.

The new regulations, which have been met with criticism, have led to a ban on most vape products. This ban has resulted in sales decreases of between 50% and 80% for many vape shops across the state. Tyler Hall, the president of WiscoFAST, a Wisconsin trade organization, has reported these figures.

One such vape shop, M of N Vapors in Sun Prairie, has had to package up 80% of their stock due to the new regulations. Another, Holy Smokes Vape Shop in Green Bay, has seen a drop in sales due to the ban on vape products. In response, they have moved some of their stock to a Menominee store, as they are currently unable to sell vape products in Wisconsin.

The new regulations could reshape the entire business for vape shop owners in Wisconsin. Business owners who sell vape products could face steep fines if they continue to sell banned items. To avoid these fines, many shops have removed items not listed in the directory of over 200 approved items from their shelves.

Hall, the president of WiscoFAST, believes the ban is hurting both consumers and business owners. He argues that the vaping industry was built by small businesses and it's unfortunate to see big tobacco taking it over. He is urging lawmakers to listen to the voices of vape shop owners and consumers in Wisconsin.

Despite losing a lawsuit against the Department of Revenue over the new vape product regulations, Hall is not giving up on their fight. He believes that the ban is causing customers to go out of their way or to different states where vape products are legal. Some shop owners, like Lautenbach, a vape store chain owner, are relying on other stores and products like THC-A and Delta to make up for their drop in sales.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the vape industry in Wisconsin will adapt to these new regulations. One thing is certain, however: the president of WiscoFAST, whose identity remains unknown, is committed to fighting for the rights of vape shop owners and consumers in the state.

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