Official Statement Regarding Vaping Related Lung Illnesses: Blame on Vaping Industry Misguided
(RICHMOND, Va.) – Recent reports about vaping-related illnesses across the country are seriously
misrepresenting the vaping industry. Most media outlets have failed to report that these respiratory
illnesses are caused by illicit, street-bought marijuana THC cartridges. Hence, it is irresponsible
to blame these respiratory infections on the legitimate and highly regulated vaping industry.
Anti-vaping groups are using these reports to mislead the public. Former FDA Commissioner Scott
Gottlieb said “legal vapes have been actively regulated by FDA since Aug [sic] 2017. FDA has
conducted thousands of inspections of manufacturers and vape stores, published manufacturing
guidance, sought product removals etc. These tragedies point to illegal vapes and THC.”
THC cartridges of any sort are illegal in Virginia, and the Virginia Smoke Free Association
(“VSFA”) does not promote or condone their use. When purchased illegally, there is no way to
know what is contained in the cartridge, how it was manufactured, or the health risks involved.
VSFA and the vapor industry are committed to tobacco harm reduction. The toxic effects of
cigarette smoke are well-documented and continue to kill hundreds of thousands every year in the
United States alone. VSFA believes vaping is the best alternative to the very real epidemic of
smoking. Scientific studies from across the globe have consistently shown that vaping is the most
effective means of smoking cessation available.
VSFA members are devoted to responsible business practices. This includes eliminating unsafe,
non-compliant, and illegal products. It also includes not selling vaping products to persons under
the age of 21.
To learn more about the VSFA and to locate members, visit www.virginiasmokefree.org.
Jay Taylor
President
Virginia Smoke Free Association
Please make sure you have your I.D. present when entering the store. We are required by law to I.D. anyone who appears to be 27 years of age or younger.
New Age requirements for purchasing Vapor Products in Virginia:
Effective July 1, 2019, Virginia’s laws are changing for purchasing Vapor Products. You must now be 21 years of age or older to purchase Vapor Products in the State of Virginia. The only exception to this law is Active Duty Military.
No one under 21 will be allowed at the Sales Counter, unless you are Active Duty Military.
We do not allow parents to purchase for minors as this is the law in Virginia.
We value our customers and strive to provide the best customer service in the industry.
Thank you for being a Valued Customer.
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Official Statement
