Guam's e-cigarette ban may hit resistance as vaping shops close in protest

Vaping shops across Guam will close their doors in a show of solidarity against Bill 50-37, which seeks to ban the sale of flavored tobacco products in Guam.

Retailers will cease operations for "a day of advocacy" to demonstrate the negative impact the proposed ban could have on businesses and adult consumers who "rely on e-cigarettes as an alternative to traditional tobacco products," according to a statement released by e-cigarette retailers.

The statement reads: "This coordinated effort marks the industry's opposition to legislation that threatens to provide consumers with a safe and legal avenue for accessing e-cigarette products."

Bill 50 was introduced by Senator Thomas Fisher, aiming to protect children from the misuse of e-cigarettes.

During a press conference in February 2023, Fisher announced his intention to introduce Bill 50 along with a separate measure to address fentanyl abuse, stating that flavored e-cigarette products are designed to attract children and that "big tobacco companies" are marketing e-cigarettes to kids.

Fisher remarked at that time: "Ask any teacher on this island if they have encountered a fifth grader bringing an e-cigarette into the classroom, and you will find that indeed, there are such cases."

Theseus Mendiola, owner and operator of Vape Escape in Guam, stated in the e-cigarette retailers' announcement that if passed, "this careless regulation" would harm many adults, and as responsible members of the e-cigarette community, they are taking practical steps to raise awareness about the importance of "reasonable regulation."

Mendiola said in the statement: "We are willing to sit at the negotiating table and work with decision-makers to explore alternative methods that balance public health concerns with adult consumer choices."

Despite another bill, 175-37, being heard at the same time, the Guam legislature will hold a public hearing on Bill 50 on Thursday at 1:30 PM.

Bill 50 is not the only legislation aimed at preventing youth access to tobacco and e-cigarettes.

In December 2023, several other bills were publicly heard, including Bill 186-37, which updates the use of tobacco fees and fines; Bill 187-37, which prohibits the sale of tobacco and e-cigarette products through vending machines; Bill 194-37, which updates fines and penalties for tobacco and nicotine violations; and Bill 195-37, which sets restrictions on tobacco and e-cigarette advertising.