Illegal Vaping

The Rise of Illegal Vaping

The National Sheriffs' Association (NSA) is raising awareness about the alarming rise of illegal, disposable Chinese vapes targeting young people in the U.S. Since 2019, the use of these products by middle and high school students has surged, with 8 in 10 youth vape users noting preference for these illicit products. Predominantly manufactured in China, manufacturers there often evade federal regulations by disguising imports, presenting significant challenges for local law enforcement.

With inconsistent federal enforcement, state and local agencies have taken on an increased role, being forced to dedicate resources to seize these products and monitor youth usage. Many schools are even installing sensors and dedicating staff to combat the surge of vaping on their campuses. In addition, numerous states have passed directory legislation, which identifies legal products and ensures compliance with state laws and regulations.

To help address these critical concerns for law enforcement, NSA has organized this webpage of resources and news articles. For any questions, please email kbarksdale@sheriffs.org

RESOURCES

• THE NATIONAL SHERIFFS' ASSOCIATION SUPPORTS PROTECTING YOUTH FROM ILLICIT VAPOR PRODUCTS (will be available July 2025)

• July 2023 Letter to Members of the South Carolina Congressional Delegation

• December 2023 Letter to Secretaries Becerra and Mayorkas, and Attorney General Garland

• Stop the Spread of Illicit Chinese Vapes One-Pager

• Cartels and the Chinese E-Vapor Connection

IN THE NEWS:

• Protecting Hoosier youth from unregulated vapes | Indiana Capital Chronicle 

• China Shipping Devices with Inhalation | MAHA Special Report Vapor Clip 

• FDA and CBP Seize Nearly $34 Million Worth of Illegal E-Cigarettes During Joint Operation

• Authorities raid smoke shop, arrest Albany man for drugs and paraphernalia

• News12/Police raid Borough Park smoke shop, seize over 1,000 illegal flavored vapes