MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN — Vape shops across Wisconsin are facing a grim future after a new state law took effect September 1, banning the sale of any vape products not pre-approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Impact on Local Shops
Brett Huber, general manager of Cents Gifts Smoke Shop in Milwaukee, said the rule has left their shelves bare. “These last few days have been kind of tough,” Huber admitted, describing the loss as a “gaping hole” in their inventory.
Under the law, only Juul and Vuse products are allowed for sale — brands Huber described as the “least popular” among customers.
Hundreds of Shops Affected
According to Milwaukee Common Council President Jose Perez, the city has 530 stores selling vape products, all of which must now clear out unapproved inventory. Shops caught selling non-FDA approved products face fines of $1,000 per day.
Huber acknowledged the risk, saying closures are now a real possibility: “Could you see a store like this potentially having to shut down? Yes.”
Legal Fight Unfolds
Tyler Hall, president of Wisconsinites for Alternatives to Smoking and Tobacco, filed a federal lawsuit in June to block the law. But on September 5, a judge upheld it, further tightening restrictions…