Loopholes for Underage Access in E-Cigarette Delivery Sales Laws, United States, 2022

Am J Public Health. 2023 May;113(5):568-576. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2023.307228. Epub 2023 Mar 9.

Abstract

Objectives. To comprehensively catalog and review state e-cigarette delivery sales laws as well as capture their scope and dimensions. Methods. We conducted an in-depth review to determine whether states had at least 1 form of e-cigarette delivery sales law. We coded laws for 5 key policy domains: (1) delivery terminology used in laws, (2) age verification requirements, (3) packaging label requirements, (4) permit or registration requirements, and (5) fines and penalties for violations. Results. Overall, 34 states had e-cigarette delivery sales laws with varying scopes and dimensions. In 27 states, these laws required at least 1 form of age verification requirements. We identified mandatory packaging labels in 12 states, and 7 states where permits were required. There were considerable differences among states on the scale of fines and penalties for violations. Conclusions. Our findings reveal extensive heterogeneity in e-cigarette delivery sales laws among states, particularly regarding the scope and dimensions of these laws. Public Health Implications. The mapping of e-cigarette delivery sales policies showed several potential loopholes that may diminish their effectiveness. (Am J Public Health. 2023;113(5):568-576. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2023.307228).

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Commerce
  • Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems*
  • Humans
  • Public Health
  • Smoking
  • Tobacco Products*
  • United States
  • Vaping*