A recent meeting of the House Commerce Committee in Vermont highlighted ongoing concerns about the enforcement of laws related to flavored vaping products. The discussion, held on May 8, 2025, focused on the effectiveness of current regulations and the need for enhanced oversight in the digital marketplace.

Last year, a proposal to ban flavored vapes in the state did not pass, prompting committee members to revisit the issue of enforcement. They noted that previous discussions with the Liquor Lottery and the Attorney General's office revealed gaps in monitoring online sales of vaping products. A pilot project had been initiated, which involved an investigator tracking online sales and reporting findings to the Attorney General's office. This effort resulted in approximately $900,000 in fines over two years, indicating a significant issue with compliance among sellers.

The committee expressed interest in establishing a full-time investigator dedicated to monitoring online sales of vaping products. The Liquor Lottery indicated that they could provide such an investigator, which could strengthen enforcement efforts and help ensure that state laws are upheld.

This discussion is particularly relevant to Vermont residents concerned about the health impacts of flavored vaping products, especially among youth. The committee's commitment to improving enforcement could lead to more effective regulation and a safer environment for the community.

As the committee continues to explore this issue, the potential for increased oversight may play a crucial role in addressing public health concerns related to vaping in Vermont.