The Energy Marketers of America (EMA) recently released a statement in support of the Trump Administration’s crackdown on rogue smoke shops selling unregulated products.
“Legitimate retailers watch these unlawful smoke shops set up shop next door, dodging ID checks, taxes and safety rules while pushing untested junk to minors,” the federation’s statement read. “For too long, they operated unchecked. Now, Trump’s all-of-government blitz — spearheaded by FDA, CBP and DOJ — is turning the tide, boosting market integrity and public health.”
Some of the “key wins” highlighted by EMA include:
- The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) record seizure of 4.7 million illegal e-cigarettes worth $86.5 million.
- FDA and CBP’s $34 million Chicago vape haul earlier this year.
- New York’s Operation Vapers’ Dozen, which targeted dozens of illicit vape distributors.
EMA noted that the Administration’s coordinated enforcement has renewed confidence among legitimate operators.
“By seizing millions of illicit vapes and closing unlawful smoke shops, it sends a powerful message: the days of selling illicit vapes are over,” the federation stated, urging for allocation of a portion of federal enforcement funds to local agencies to further enhance investigations and seizures.
“Honest retailers — family-run, community-based small businesses — seek only a level playing field. Each shutdown of a rouge smoke shop selling illegal vaping products restores fairness to those who play by the rules. Strict enforcement ultimately protects consumers, shields children and enables law-abiding businesses to thrive,” said EMA President Rob Underwood.
