2015 Concluded CTA's

[Robino1]

URGENT - New Mexico Call to Action to oppose damaging tax on e-liquid

SB 65 would impose a massive tax on e-liquid and cartridges of 4 cents per mg of nicotine contained in the product. At first glance, this may not sound like much, but it would double or triple the cost of most vapor products in New Mexico.

This bill will be heard in the Senate Corporations and Transportation Committee TODAY (2/18/15) at 2:00PM (MST).

Taxation under SB 65

• 30 ml bottle, 3.6% (36 mg/ml) - $43.20
  
• 30 ml bottle, 2.4% (24 mg/ml) - $28.80
  
• 30 ml bottle, 1.8% (18 mg/ml) - $21.60
  
• 30 ml bottle, 1.2% (12 mg/ml) - $14.40
  
• 30 ml bottle, 0.6% (6 mg/ml) - $7.20

Please take action now to oppose this attack on vapor products!

Call to Action: CASAA: New Mexico Call to Action: Take Action NOW to oppose a damaging tax on e-liquid

ECF Discussion: New Mexico Call to Action: Take Action NOW to oppose a damaging tax on e-liquid | E-Cigarette Forum

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Texas Call to Action: SB 97 should be amended to remove unnecessary hurdles to adult access to vapor products online

Multiple bills have been introduced in Texas that would ban sales of vapor product to minors (which we support), but would also severely restrict internet sales (which we oppose). CASAA is currently focused on SB 97, which received a hearing last week before the Senate Health & Human Services Committee. SB 97 would impose unnecessarily harsh restrictions on Internet sales, including requiring every single order to a Texas resident to be sent using an ID check service that costs $6.

Please take action now to urge the Health & Human Services Committee to amend this bill

Amend SB 97 - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Texas Call to Action: SB 97 should be amended to remove unnecessary hurdles to adult access to vapor products online

ECF Discussion: Texas Call to Action | E-Cigarette Forum

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UPDATE 3/6/15 -

SB 97 was voted favorably out of the Health & Human Services Committee and has been placed on the intent calendar, meaning it could be considered by the full Senate at any time. We have updated the Call to Action to allow you to send a letter to your senator, so please participate even if you have already done so.

Please take action now to urge the Senate to amend this bill.

Amend SB 97 - Send an Email

Please take action now to urge the Senate to amend this bill.
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UPDATE - 3/9/2015

Tomorrow (Tuesday, March 10) at 8 AM, the House Public Health Committee will hold a hearing on HB 170 (similar to SB 97). This bill would wisely ban sales of vapor products to minors, but like SB 97, it would also implement overbearing rules for online sales of vapor products that would hurt consumers and shut down Texas businesses.

The committee is unlikely to vote on the bill tomorrow, so please keep up the emails and phone calls to members of the Public Health Committee even if you read message after 8 AM on Tuesday.

Please take action NOW to urge the House Public Health Committee to amend this bill.

Amend HB 170 - Send an Email
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UPDATE -

Several bills that would impede consumer access to vapor products are scheduled for a public hearing in the House Public Health Committee on Tuesday, March 24th at 8:00 AM in the Capitol Extension, 2nd floor, room E.012 (Central Gallery - click here for a map). We have Identified HB 170, HB 81, HB 970, and HB 2321 as all containing language that would impact consumer access, choice, and awareness of vapor products. While we oppose those bills, we urge support of HB 647, a common sense bill that only seeks to prohibit sales to minors.

Please take action NOW by sending a message and making a call to your representatives urging them to oppose these bills and adopt an appropriate rule prohibiting sales to minors.

Oppose these bills - Send an Email
Oppose these bills - Make a Call​

For those wishing to testify or otherwise attend the hearing, an organizational meeting will be held on Monday, March 23rd at 7:00PM at:

Driskill Hotel
(Upstairs lounge area)
604 Brazos St
Austin, TX 78701​

This meeting is for anyone interested in testifying or attending the hearing. Remember, even if you are not planning to testify, your attendance is valuable as it demonstrates the large number of people affected by and engaged in this issue.
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UPDATE
(Update - 03/30/2015)

The discussion about prohibiting sales of vapor products to minors in Texas will continue on Monday, March 30th in the House Public Health Committee. Over the past week, a substantial amount of work has been done to bring a bill to the table that would ban sales to minors without imposing unnecessary barriers to adult access.

At this time, there is no one bill in particular we are recommending for our members to support, although we understand there are several amendments being considered that would address at least some of the concerns that we have.

We are asking that you contact your legislators to let them know of your concerns so that the issues that are important to us as consumers are taken into account as amendments are being offered.

• Take Action - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Texas Call to Action: Take Action to oppose FOUR bills that would limit adult access to vapor products

ECF Discussion: Texas Call to Action | E-Cigarette Forum
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New campaign for Texas . . . .

Activities for this Call to Action:

1. Send an Email
   
2. Call the Bill’s Sponsor, Sen. Sylvia Garcia and ask that SB 706 be withdrawn
   • (512) 463-0106
3. Attend the hearing (1:00 p.m. Monday, April 6, 2015)

Summary:

SB 706 would include “a liquid substance” used to refill an e-cigarette in the state’s Health and Safety Code as a “hazardous substance.” This would apply to all e-liquid regardless of nicotine content. Although this would be a means to requiring bottled e-liquid to be sold in child-resistant packaging (which CASAA is supportive of as long as it is tied to a federal standard), there are several other sections of the code that would likely limit consumer access to vapor products including

• Labeling requirements
  
• Granting rule-making authority to an unelected Board of Health
  
• Registration requirements for manufacturers, importers, wholesalers, and some retailers

Take Action:

1. Please take action NOW by sending a message to your senator urging him or her to oppose this bill.

• Oppose SB 706 - Send an Email

(If you live in a district represented by one of the committee members, you will receive a separate alert prompting you to take action. It is vitally important that you participate as lawmakers consider the views of their constituents with more weight.)

2. Please reach out to the bill’s sponsor and politely request that SB 706 be withdrawn:

• Senator Sylvia Garcia (District 6)
  • Capitol Phone: (512) 463-0106
    
  • District Phone: (713) 923-7575

3. SB 706 will be heard in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee:

Monday, April 6th
1:00 PM
Senate Chamber
2nd floor of East Wing of the Capitol
1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701​

Please make plans to attend this hearing. Public testimony will be limited to 3 minutes. If submitting written testimony, please provide 20 copies with your name on each. Even if you do not intend to testify, your presence is important as it shows the large number of people impacted by, and engaged in, this issue.


Call to Action: CASAA: Texas Call to Action: Take Action to Oppose SB 706 which would classify e-liquid as a "hazardous substance" under the Texas Health and Safety Code.

ECF Discussion: Texas Call to Action: Take Action to Oppose SB 706 which would classify e-liquid as a "hazardous substance" under the Texas Health and Safety Code. | E-Cigarette Forum
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URGENT UPDATE
(Update - 05.04.15)

Neither SB 97 nor HB 170 have been favorably amended to protect online sales to adults between the ages of 18 - 21. In fact, the bills are now identical and are moving toward votes in their respective houses.

We are no longer negotiating for a reasonable bill; both of these bills need to be rejected.

Please take action NOW by sending a message to Texas Representatives and Senators urging them to oppose SB 97 and HB 170.


Call to Action: CASAA: Texas Call to Action: SB 97 should be amended to remove unnecessary hurdles to adult access to vapor products online

ECF Discussion: Texas Call to Action | Page 2 | E-Cigarette Forum
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(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Arizona
A dangerously vague and ambiguous bill has been introduced in the Arizona State House of Representatives. Enactment of HB 2648 would give state enforcement agencies the power to harass and prosecute retailers merely for selling products in flavors other than tobacco and menthol. Please act now to stop it!

Specifically, HB 2648 would:

• Prohibit any marketing or advertising or vapor products “in a manner that specifically appeals to children”
  
• Prohibit the manufacture or sale of a vapor product with a label or packaging that “attempts to confuse the vapor product with a toy or candy.”
  
• Require state-specific labeling language about the dangers of vapor product usage for youth

The House Government and Education Committee will hold a special meeting Thursday, February 19th at 10:00AM in Room HHR 1 at the State House in Phoenix (1700 W Washington St). Committee members need to hear about the dramatic unintended consequences of this bill -- including retailers choosing not to sell flavors for fear of being cited for violating this law -- from vapers, business owners, and other harm reduction advocates!

Please take action now to oppose this bill!
Oppose HB 2648 - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Arizona Call to Action: Take Action NOW to oppose HB 2648 which threatens access to and variety of vapor products.

ECF Discussion: Arizona Call to Action: HB 2648 | E-Cigarette Forum

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Ohio
Gov. Kasich’s Proposed Budget will impose a massive tax on vapor products

Ohio Governor John Kasich has proposed a massive tax on vapor products and a hike in the tax on smokeless tobacco products to 60% of wholesale. If the Governor’s budget bill -- HB 64 (read the vapor tax portions here) -- becomes law, each 0.1 ml of nicotine-containing e-liquid would be taxed at the same rate as a cigarette. This means that 2 ml of e-liquid would be subject to the same tax as a pack of cigarettes, and a 30ml bottle would be subject to the same tax as 15 packs of cigarettes.

Governor Kasich has also proposed increasing Ohio’s cigarette tax to $2.25 per pack (from $1.25 per pack). If that tax also passes, nicotine-containing vapor products would be taxed at:

• 10 ml bottle -- $11.25 (tax equivalent of 5 packs of cigarettes)
• 15 ml bottle -- $16.87 (tax equivalent of 7 ½ packs of cigarettes)
• 30 ml bottle -- $33.75 (tax equivalent of 15 packs of cigarettes)

Please take action now to oppose this attack on vapor products and other low-risk substitutes for smoking!

• Oppose Gov. Kasich’s harmful tax hikes - Send an Email

HB 64 is currently before the House Ways & Means Committee, which will likely hold a public hearing on Wednesday, March 4th. We urge all our members to make plans to get to Columbus on March 4th. An exceptionally strong presence from individuals who have had their lives changed by vaping could really make a difference. CASAA will update its membership when we have the full details, including time and location.

Call to Action: CASAA: Ohio Call to Action: Gov. Kasich’s Proposed Budget will impose a massive tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: Ohio Call to Action: Gov. Kasich’s Proposed Budget will impose a massive tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

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URGENT - New CTA

It is likely that tax language regarding electronic cigarettes will be added to a revenue or tobacco tax bill in Ohio. As soon as more details emerge, we will update this alert. In the meantime, we are asking Ohio advocates to take action by sending a message to lawmakers urging them to oppose ANY taxes on vapor products.
Please take action NOW and send a message to Ohio lawmakers urging them to oppose ANY taxes on vapor products.

• Oppose an OH Vapor Tax - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Ohio Call to Action: Oppose ANY tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: Ohio Call to Action: Oppose ANY tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Connecticut

Call to Action: Multiple bills threaten access to and use of electronic cigarettes!

Three bills have been introduced in the Connecticut Legislature that threaten the health and welfare of vapers, smokers, and small businesses in Connecticut. At the current time, the full texts of these bills are not available, but it is plainly clear that some members of the Connecticut Legislature are aiming to snuff out the vapor industry in Connecticut.
Of particular concern is HB 6283 which would:

• redefine e-cigarettes as “tobacco products,”
• prohibit use where smoking is banned,
• prohibit flavors,
• impose (as of yet undisclosed) marketing restrictions,
• enact (as of yet undisclosed) “strict” manufacturing standards,
• impose (as of yet undisclosed) labeling requirements
• impose warning label requirements similar to what is required for traditional cigarettes.

HB 6290 would extend advertising restrictions for tobacco products to include vapor products. Although CASAA supports restricting access to e-cigarettes by minors, a perhaps unintended consequence of the proposed advertising regulations in this bill will be to limit adult awareness of these products. Given the current familiarity adult smokers have with combustible cigarettes, it would be unethical to impede their awareness of low risk, smoke-free alternatives.

Take Action:

• Oppose bills that would limit adult access to vapor products in CT - Send an Email

**Please be aware that this is the beginning of the legislative session and additional bills may be introduced. CASAA will update this call to action as needed.

Call to Action: CASAA: Connecticut Call to Action: Multiple bills threaten access to and use of electronic cigarettes!

ECF Discussion: Connecticut Call to Action: Multiple bills threaten access to and use of electronic cigarettes! | E-Cigarette Forum
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UPDATE:

Connecticut Call to Action was updated yesterday.

HB 5449, HB 6283 and HB 6290 are currently scheduled to be heard by the Joint Committee on Public Health on Wednesday, March 11th, 2015. As described below, both of these bills would limit access to, and awareness of, vapor products and severely diminish their effectiveness and appeal to adult smokers.

Please take action now by (1) planning to attend the public hearing and offering testimony, and (2) sending a message to the committee and your state lawmakers urging them to oppose these bills.

Oppose HB 6283 - Send an Email
Oppose HB 6290 - Send an Email
Oppose HB 5449 - Send an Email

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Montana
House Bill 579 would alter the state’s definition of “tobacco products” to include “vapor products” for the purpose of subjecting them to a 50% wholesale tax.

This bill would also enact a weight-based tax on nicotine of 0.0173¢/mg. Although the cost is practically negligible, adoption of this language could lead to a higher tax rate in the future and should be removed. HB 579 has been scheduled for a hearing in the House Taxation Committee on Thursday, March 5th, in room 152 at 10:00AM.

Please take action now by sending a message to the committee and your state representatives urging them to oppose this unjustifiable tax.

• Oppose HB 579 - Send an Email

(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

Call to Action: CASAA: Montana Call to Action: Take action NOW to oppose a 50% wholesale tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: Montana Call to Action: Take action NOW to oppose a 50% wholesale tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

(Update - 03/04/15)

CASAA has received word that the hearing for HB 579, scheduled for tomorrow (Thursday 03/05), has been canceled. CASAA is also being told that the bill’s sponsor plans to withdraw it. Currently, this update is solely to inform Montana residents that were planning a trip to Helena that they can stay home. When CASAA receives a more substantial confirmation, CASAA will officially conclude this call to action.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - New Hampshire
Governor Maggie Hassan has proposed a massive tax on vapor products and a hike in the tax on smokeless tobacco products. If the Governor's budget bill -- HB 2 -- is enacted, "nicotine vapor products" (all devices and nicotine-containing cartridges and liquids) and smokeless tobacco products would be subject to an enormous tax of 73.94% of wholesale price.

1. Please take a moment to send an email and make phone calls to your legislators and committee members.
   1. Oppose Gov. Hassan’s harmful vapor tax - Send an Email
      
   2. Call your Representative and Senator and ask them to oppose Gov. Hassan's vapor and smokeless taxes - Make a Call

1. There are THREE public hearings that vapers and business owners can attend and speak out at. These include:

Thursday, March 5th
4:00 PM
Legislative Office Building
- Room 210-211
33 North State Street
Concord, NH

Monday, March 9th
6:00 PM
Kennet High School Auditorium
409 Eagles Way
North Conway, NH

Monday, March 9th
5:00 PM
Derry Town Hall
14 Manning Street
Derry, NH​

For help developing your testimony please see the CASAA talking points for taxes here

Call to Action: CASAA: New Hampshire Call to Action: Oppose Gov. Hassan's budget bill (HB 2) which would enact a massive, unjustifiable tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: New Hampshire Call to Action: Oppose Gov. Hassan's budget bill (HB 2) which would enact a massive, unjustifiable tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum


(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Illinois Call to Action

HB 2404 would deceptively redefine “smoking” to include the use of an electronic cigarette for the purpose of prohibiting use in the same places where smoking is banned. HB 2404 has been referred to the IL House Consumer Protection Committee and is scheduled for a hearing on TUESDAY, 03/10/15 at 2:30 PM in Room 118 Capitol Building, Springfield, IL. Please make plans to attend the hearing if at all possible.

Please take action now by sending a message to the committee members and your representative.

• Oppose HB 2404 - Send an Email

Please make phone calls to members of the committee

• Oppose HB 2404 - Make a Call

Please take a moment to fill out a “witness slip” for the hearing.

• Step-by Step Instructions for submitting a witness slip in Illinois (Illinois Residents Only):
  • Click hereto access the witness slip for HB 2404.
  • Part I. Enter your personal information.
  • Part II Representation. Do not complete Part II unless you are expressing a position on behalf of a group.CASAA members should NOT complete Part II because you are offering your own position, not CASAA’s.
  • Part III. Position: Click on the button next to “Opponent”
  • Part IV. Testimony: Click on the box next to “Record of Appearance Only.” Filling out a witness slip does not mean you have to appear in person at the hearing (although we absolutely strongly encourage you to attend) – it is a mechanism that allows you to register your opposition to the resolution.
  • Type the Captcha Code in the box.
  • Click the box next to “I Agree to the ILGA Terms of Agreement.”
  • Click on “Create Slip.”
• Witness slips can be filled out by anyone age 13 and older. Consider talking with your children or grandchildren about this issue. If they're happy you made the switch, they might want to express their opposition to the bill by completing a witness slip.
  
  Call to Action: CASAA: Illinois Call to Action: Take action to oppose HB 2404 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is banned
  
  ECF Discussion: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...ll-action-oppose-hb-2404-indoor-vape-ban.html
  
  _____________
  
  UPDATE - (03/09/15)
  
  CASAA is receiving word that HB 2404 is being rescheduled for the committee hearing on TUESDAY, March 17th, 2015 at 2:30 PM. Advocates that were planning to attend the hearing scheduled for tomorrow (3/10) should instead make plans for next week.
  
  In the meantime, if you have not already taken action, please take a moment to send an email and make a phone call to your IL Legislators . . . and also fill out your witness slip

(Writing Tip #1)If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT- Utah Call to Action: HB 415

Having successfully staved off a massive tax threat, Utah vapers are now facing a new threat. HB 415, the Electronic Cigarette Regulation Act, imposes various requirements on retailers and manufacturers that could potentially make Utah a regulatory island and cut consumers off from a variety of products.

Please take action now and send an email expressing opposition to HB 415, which would dangerously overregulate the sale and manufacturing of vapor products in Utah.

• Oppose Overregulation of E-Cigarettes in Utah - Send an Email

Among other things, HB 415:

• Defines e-cigarettes as a tobacco product and requires retailers selling e-cigarettes to obtain a tobacco permit. This is problematic for a number of reasons since classification as a tobacco product under Utah law subjects e-cigarettes to various other restrictions. Moreover, e-cigarette is broadly defined to include the device, and any accessories or components. “Electronic cigarette substance” is defined to include e-liquid as well as the raw ingredients used to create the e-liquid.

• Contains labeling and child-resistant packaging requirements that are not tied to a federal standard, which would make it more difficult for out-of-state products to be sold in Utah.

• The bill does not preempt local legislation on these issues, meaning that retailers and manufacturers may be subject to a host of confusing and potentially conflicting requirements at the state versus local level, further reducing consumer access to a variety of products.

• Requires e-liquids use pharmaceutical nicotine produced to USP pharmaceutical standards. This section is poorly written and the bill proposes no way for the Utah Health Department to pay for testing of these nicotine products.

The bill has been assigned to the House Law Enforcement and Criminal Justice Standing Committee, and is scheduled to be heard at that committee’s meeting on Friday, March 6th at 8:00 A.M. (450 State Capitol). It is imperative that vapers in Utah respond immediately to help defeat or force amendments to this bill. We will update this call to action as details arise. You can also follow developments via Utah Smoke-Free Association here.

Call to Action: CASAA: Utah Call to Action: Oppose HB 415 - Over-regulation that would limit access to low-risk, smoke-free vapor products

ECF Discussion: http://www.e-cigarette-forum.com/fo...overregulate-vapor-products-limit-access.html


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(Writing Tip #1)If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Pennsylvania
CASAA has issued a Call to Action for Pennsylvania, where Governor Tom Wolf’s proposed budget for FY 2016 would enact a 40% wholesale tax on both vapor products and smokeless tobacco. This is certainly not the first time that Pennsylvania has sought to enact a tax on smokeless tobacco, and thanks to the tireless efforts of Bill Godshall of Smokefree Pennsylvania, it has been defeated every time. This year, Governor Wolf is adding e-cigarettes to the mix and hopes to raise $80+ million.

The PA Budget process does not require the state to hold public hearings. If PA residents hope to offer input on items in this proposal, they should take this opportunity to reach out to lawmakers.

Please take action NOW and send a message to your PA Assemblymember.

• Oppose Vapor taxes in PA - Send an Email

In addition to sending a fully editable, pre-written email, please also make a call to your assemblymember.

• Oppose Vapor taxes in PA - Make a Call

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URGENT UPDATE
Update - 07.09.15

Although the PA State Assembly passed a budget bill in June that did not include a damaging tax on vapor products, the budget was promptly vetoed by Governor Wolf. As a result, the assembly will return to budget negotiations in order to hammer out an acceptable plan. These meetings could begin as soon as next week (week of 7/13).

In advance of the budget talks, it is vitally important that Pennsylvania vapers and tobacco harm reduction advocates take a moment to express a bit of gratitude to lawmakers for passing the initial bill that did not impose a tax on vapor products.

Please take a moment now to send a fully editable, pre-written thank you letter to your Pennsylvania lawmakers. Please also include your personal story about how switching to low-risk, smoke-free alternatives like e-cigarettes and snus has changed your life. If you need a little inspiration, please visit our testimonials project. And if you haven’t already submitted your story, please take a moment to add it to our collection. Personal stories are incredibly powerful and help legislators understand why we are so passionate about ensuring that vapor products remain accessible, affordable, and effective.

Call to Action: CASAA: Pennsylvania Call to Action: Oppose the Governor's unjustifiable 40% wholesale tax on Vapor Products and Smokeless Tobacco.

ECF Discussion: Pennsylvania: Gov. Wolf proposing taxing e-cigs | E-Cigarette Forum
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(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although CASAA has provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, CASAA would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Rhode Island
House Bill 5690 would ban the use of e-cigarettes in ANY indoor space in Rhode Island. As written, there is no exemption for vapor retail shops. HB 5690 is scheduled for hearing and/or consideration on WEDNESDAY, March 18th, 2015 at 5:30 PM in the House Committee on Health, Education, and Welfare, Room 101, State House.

Direct link to campaign: Send a Message

Call to Action: CASAA: Rhode Island Call to Action: Oppose HB 5690 which would prohibit vaping in the same places smoking is banned

ECF Discussion: CASAA: Rhode Island Call to Action: Oppose HB 5690 which would prohibit vaping in the same places smoking is banned | E-Cigarette Forum

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Update

Senate Bill 482 would require all e-cigarette retailers in Rhode Island to post false and misleading signs warning consumers that vaping can cause cancer and lung disease.

Senate Bill 489 would prohibit the use of e-cigarettes in ANY indoor public space in Rhode Island, including vapor retail shops.

Please take action NOW by sending a message to your lawmakers urging them to oppose these bills

• Oppose SB 482 & SB 489 - Send an Email

These bills are both scheduled for public hearings on THURSDAY, April 16th, 2015 in the Senate Health & Human Services Committee:

5:00 PM
Rhode Island State House - Senate Lounge, 3rd Floor
82 Smith St
Providence, RI 02903​

Please make plans to attend this hearing. Even if you are not planning to testify, your presence is encouraged as it demonstrates the large number of people affected by and engaged in this issue. As a sign of respect, please refrain from vaping in the capitol building. Please also dress accordingly -- no sweatpants and t-shirts.


Call to Action: CASAA: Rhode Island: Oppose an Indoor Vaping Ban (SB 489) and misleading messaging (SB 482).

ECF Discussion: Rhode Island: Oppose an Indoor Vaping Ban (SB 489) and misleading messaging (SB 482). | E-Cigarette Forum
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NEW URGENT UPDATE - Rhode Island

Rhode Island Call to Action:

SB 463 would subject vapor products to the state's 80% wholesale tax on tobacco products by redefining "Tobacco" to include "electronic nicotine delivery systems."

This bill is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Committee on Finance on TUESDAY, April 5th.

Please take action TODAY by sending a message to your district's senator, as well as members of the committee.

Oppose Vapor Taxes in Rhode Island - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Rhode Island Call to Action: Oppose an 80% wholesale tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: Rhode Island Call to Action: Oppose an 80% wholesale tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Alabama
Representative Steve McMillan has introduced a bill (HB 224) that would enact a $0.25/ml tax on e-liquid. HB 224 has been referred to the House of Representatives committee on Ways and Means General Fund. Please see the chart below for a breakdown of the cost this tax would add to bottled e-liquid.

Alabama - Proposed tax per ML
$0.25

5 ml $1.25

10 ml $2.50

15 ml $3.75

30 ml $7.50​

Moreover, this bill will require Alabama vendors to purchase liquids only from a wholesaler that is permitted by the state. This will have the effect of dramatically reducing the availability of products to consumers in Alabama.

Please take action now and send a message to your lawmakersand the committee urging them to oppose this bill.

• Oppose HB 224 - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Alabama Call to Action: Take action now to Oppose HB 224 which would impose an unjustifiable tax on e-liquid

ECF Discussion: Alabama Call to Action: Take action now to Oppose HB 224 which would impose an unjustifiable tax on e-liquid | E-Cigarette Forum

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NEW URGENT UPDATE

On Monday, July 13th, 2015, Alabama Governor Robert Bentley announced that the state legislature would be heading back into special session to hash out the details of the state’s budget. One of the proposals to be discussed will be a revived version of an earlier e-cigarette tax bill. (See above)

Please take action NOW by sending a message to your lawmakers urging them to oppose the Governor’s vapor tax.

The special session will reconvene on Monday, August 3rd, 2015. It is vital that Alabama vapers and harm reduction advocates take this opportunity NOW to reach out to lawmakers urging them to oppose ANY new tax on vapor products.

Although this new tax bill has not been published and is still under review by the Legislative Fiscal Office, the Breathe Easier Alliance of Alabama has stated that this bill is likely to impose a $0.25/milliliter tax on e-cigarettes and e-liquid containing nicotine. This would add $7.50 to a 30 ml bottle of e-liquid.

Please see the full Call to Action for more details: CASAA: Alabama Call to Action! Oppose new taxes on e-cigarettes and vapor products!

ECF Discussion: Alabama Governor proposes taxing vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

Direct link to send an email: Send a Message


(Writing Tip #1)If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Arkansas
Senate Bill 447 would alter the state’s definition of “smoking” to include the use of electronic (or digital) cigarettes. In fact, the way the bill is currently written, “carrying” an e-cigarette in an indoor public space would be prohibited.

SB 447 was scheduled to be heard in the Senate Committee on Public Health, Welfare, and Labor several days ago. However, the committee ran out of time to hear the bill. We have received credible information that the hearing will likely be rescheduled and the bill will heard over the next few days (during the week of 3/16).

Please take action now and send an email to the committee and your state senator urging them to oppose this bill.

Oppose SB 447 - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Arkansas Call to Action: Take action now to oppose SB 447 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is banned

ECF Discussion: Arkansas Call to Action: Take action now to oppose SB 447 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is banned | E-Cigarette Forum
____________________
Update

Up until Tuesday of this week (3/24), SB 987 was a “shell bill” with no substantive provisions. This all changed when 31 pages of regulations were substituted and rushed through the legislative process. Currently the bill is likely to be heard in the House Rules Committee TOMORROW, Thursday, March 26th at the State Capitol Building (500 Woodlane Street) in Little Rock. We will update our members in AR when we know what time the hearing will take place.

• Oppose SB 978 - Send an Email

It is our understanding that representatives of the Arkansas vapor industry were misled into believing that SB 978 would not place unnecessary restrictions on retailers or manufacturers. Unfortunately, this bill has moved out of their control and presents several challenges that must be fixed.

If passed, SB 978 would, among other things:

• Lay the groundwork for future taxation of vapor products
  
• Impose onerous paperwork requirements on industry
  
• Require vapor retailers to only purchase their products only through wholesalers licensed by the State of Arkansas
  
• Impose specific child-resistant packaging requirements that are not in line with existing federal regulation.
  
• Become effective May 1st, meaning that many retailers will be forced to operate illegally if state bureaucrats are unable to dispense licenses in time.

Please take action NOW to oppose this bill!

• Oppose SB 978 - Send an Email

Please also take a moment to call members of the House Rules Committee and tell them that you oppose this bill:

AR House Rules Cmte
John T. Vines
501-624-1252

Andy Davis
501-837-5109

David L. Branscum
870-448-2408

Mary Broadaway
870-236-9800

Les Eaves
501-827-1344

Jon S. Eubanks
479-438-0533

Deborah Ferguson
870-735-7098

Bill Gossage
479-667-2122

Monte Hodges
870-281-6878

Kelley Linck
870-404-2741

Mark Lowery
501-837-5221

James Ratliff
501-454-5200

Laurie Rushing
501-545-6066

James Sturch
870-612-7589

DeAnn Vaught
870-832-2638​

(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.



Call to Action: CASAA: Arkansas Call to Action: URGENT! Oppose SB 978 which is being rushed through the legislature and could impose damaging regulations on the AR Vapor Industry.

ECF Discussion: Arkansas Call to Action: URGENT! Oppose SB 978 which is being rushed through the legislature and could impose damaging regulations on the AR Vapor Ind | E-Cigarette Forum
_______________
We updated to note that the hearing is scheduled for today (Thursday, 3-26-15) at approximately 1:00 NOON and to ask for calls to the Speaker of the House Rep. Jeremy Gillam, at 501-729-0042, and let him know that you strongly oppose SB 978 and want an opportunity for the small- and medium-sized businesses--and the consumers they serve--to have an opportunity to participate in the process and share concerns.

Even if you've already participated in the Call to Action and sent an email, please check out the update . . . in addition to asking for calls to the Speaker of the House, we've also got a new email that you can send directly to the Speaker: CASAA: Arkansas Call to Action: URGENT! Oppose SB 978 which is being rushed through the legislature and could impose damaging regulations on the AR Vapor Industry.
________________
UPDATE

CTA for Arkansas updated today (Friday, 3-27-15).

Yesterday, SB 978 was “pulled back” in order to consider changes that would address comments offered at today’s hearing. A special thanks is in order for all those that managed to attend and testify on such short notice. However, we still have no assurances that this bill will be amended favorably. Specifically, we are concerned that the requirement for retailers to procure their e-liquid only from licensed Arkansas wholesalers will remain. This is a clear indication that the legislature intends to impose a tax on vapor products in the future. We have updated our campaign to address this and other points.

Thank you for taking action yesterday, we need your help at least this one more time. Please take action now to oppose SB 978.

Oppose SB 978 - Send a Message

 

[Robino1]

CASAA has issued a Call to Action: FDA

In December 2014, the FDA held the first of a series of “workshops” in which “experts” are invited to inform them about the physical characteristics of e-cigarettes. It should be no surprise that the people who were granted time to speak were largely non-experts and that consumer representatives were closed out of this meeting. This is your opportunity to help remedy that.

See the FDA Call to Action for details on how you can submit a comment

The video at the bottom of the CTA provides some good tips for crafting your comment.

ECF Discussion: Please submit your comments to FDA re: [HASHTAG]#vaping[/HASHTAG] witch trials | E-Cigarette Forum
______________________________
UPDATE - Action Needed

CASAA has issued a Call to Action for the Second FDA Workshop on e-cigarettes.

• The first of three FDA Workshop was held in December 2014, and you have until July 2nd, 2015 to submit comments. Please see: CASAA Call to Action for First FDA Workshop for details and instructions.
• The second workshop was held in March 2015, and you have until July 2nd, 2015 to submit comments. Please see CASAA Call to Action for Second FDA Workshop for details and instructions.
• The third and final workshop will be held in June, 2015 and we will issue a new call to action shortly after it concludes.

Link to First Workshop Call to Action: CASAA: Call to Action: Submit comments on FDA’s First Workshop Regarding E-Cigarettes.

Link to Second Workshop Call to Action: CASAA: Call to Action: Submit comments on FDA’s Second Workshop Regarding E-Cigarettes.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Delaware
House Bill 5 would deceptively alter the state’s definition of “smoking” to include the use of an “electronic smoking device” for the purpose of including vaping in Delaware’s Indoor Clean Air Act. Aside from the obvious confusion caused by equating vaping with smoking, HB 5 does not even carve out an exemption for vapor retail stores.

Please take action now by sending a message and calling your district representative as well as committee members.

• Oppose HB 5 - Send an Email
• Oppose HB 5 - Make a Call

HB 5 is scheduled for a public hearing:

Wednesday, March 25th at 3:30 PM
House Health & Human Development Committee
in the House Chamber.​

Please make plans to attend this hearing. Even if you are not planning to testify, your attendance is important as it demonstrates the many people affected by and engaged in this issue. (As a sign of respect, we ask that you refrain from vaping in the building.)


Call to Action: CASAA: Delaware Call to Action: Oppose HB 5 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is currently banned.

ECF Discussion: Delaware bill to ban indoor vaping filed | E-Cigarette Forum
__________
UPDATE -

HB 5 has been removed from the agenda for tomorrow’s committee meeting. It is likely the bill will be added to the agenda for next Wednesday afternoon (04/01/15). We will alert Delaware members when we have confirmation.
________________
UPDATE: Delaware Call to Action updated 3-28-15:

Two amendments have been offered to HB 5. HA 1 would carve out an exemption for vapor retail shops. HA 2, on the other hand, would limit that exemption to a two-year period. Although this is clearly a step in the right direction, HA 2 is unacceptable. Furthermore, despite an exemption for vapor shops, HB 5 would still force thousands of businesses and workplaces in Delaware to prohibit vaping indoors regardless of what they might feel is the best policy for their establishment.

At this time, we are continuing to recommend our Delaware members to oppose HB 5. If you have not done so already, please take this opportunity to send an email to your state representatives urging them to oppose HB 5 and any bills that would limit where smoke-free vapor products can be used by adults.

• Oppose HB 5 - Send an Email
  
• Oppose HB 5 - Make a Call

_________________
UPDATE: (Update - 03.30.15)

HB 5 is set for a hearing in the House Health and Human Development Committee on [U]Wednesday, April 1st at 3:30 PM[/U]. Please make plans to attend this hearing. For talking points to help you develop your comments please see here.

For those that have not participated in our call to action, please take a moment now to send an email and make a call to your representative and members of the committee.

• Oppose HB 5 - Send an Email
  
• Oppose HB 5 - Make a Call

_________________________
UPDATE - Updated 4-13-15:

HB 5 has passed out of committee. It is important that vapers continue to act as this bill could be heard in the Delaware House of Representatives as early as April 20th, 2015.

For those that have not participated in our call to action, please take a moment now to send an email and make a call to your representative and members of the committee.

• Oppose HB 5 - Send an Email
  
• Oppose HB 5 - Make a Call

________________
URGENT UPDATE -
(Update - 06.09.15)

HB 5 has been placed on the Senate Agenda for Thursday, June 11th, 2015.

Even if you’ve already participated,
please take a moment now to remind your State Senator
to oppose this bill.​

Although it is encouraging to hear that an amendment would allow some businesses to continue to allow vaping in their establishments, we are still recommending that Delaware members oppose HB 5. This bill would still prohibit vaping in thousands of public indoor places thereby dangerously misrepresenting the risks of vapor products to the public.

Oppose HB 5 - Send an Email


(Writing Tip #1)If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Wisconsin
An ordinance has been introduced in Madison that would amend its tobacco zoning and licensing rules to include e-cigarette retailers. This matter is on the Plan Commission agenda (Item 15) for MONDAY, March 23rd at 5:30 PM. Please make plans to attend this hearing.

210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd
Room 201 (City-County Building) ​

If adopted, this ordinance would shut down at least 16 Madison vapor and tobacco/vapor stores, as well as impact other stores of any kind that sell tobacco, based on their proximities to parks, churches, healthcare facilities, schools, playgrounds, daycare facilities, or youth centers. For more details, please see the WSAC Call to Actionhere.

• Take Action to Oppose this ordinance - Send an Email

It is imperative that ALL Madison and Wisconsin e-cigarette shops, wholesalers and consumers oppose this ordinance, as this will set a precedent that will be used in other cities around the state!

Note: Public Hearing items may be called at any time after the beginning of the public hearing. Those wishing to speak on an item must fill out a registration slip and give it to the Secretary. The Plan Commission uses a consent agenda, which means that the Commission can consider any item at 5:45 PM where there are no registrants wishing to speak in opposition regardless of its placement on the agenda. (Even if you do not plan on testifying, please attend this hearing. Large numbers of people demonstrate how many are engaged in and affected by this issue.)

Call to Action: CASAA: Madison, WI - Local Call to Action: Oppose an ordinance that would limit adult access to vapor products

ECF Discussion: Madison, WI - Local Call to Action: Oppose an ordinance that would limit adult access to vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum


(Writing Tip #1)If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Nevada
Senate Bill 201 would deceptively redefine “smoking” to include the use of “electronic smoking devices” for the purpose of including vaping in the state’s indoor clean air act.

Please take action now by sending a message to your state senator and members of the committee.

• Oppose SB 201 - Send an Email

SB 201 is scheduled for a hearing in the Senate Judiciary Committee on

Wednesday, April 1st at 1:00 PM.
Room 2134 of the Legislative Building
401 S. Carson St.
Carson City, NV

Videoconferenced to:
Room 4412E Grant Sawyer State Office Building
555 E. Washington Ave.
Las Vegas, NV.​

Please make plans to attend this hearing. For talking points to use in developing your comments to the committee, please see here. Even if you are not planning to testify, your attendance is important as it demonstrates the many people affected by and engaged in this issue. (As a sign of respect, we ask that you refrain from vaping in the building.)



Call to Action: CASAA: Nevada Call to Action: Oppose SB 201 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is currently banned

ECF Discussion: Nevada Call to Action: Oppose SB 201 which would prohibit vaping where smoking is currently banned | E-Cigarette Forum


(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Minnesota
SF 2025 would significantly raise taxes on all e-liquid consumers in Minnesota by imposing a 30 cent per ml tax on e-cigarette liquid. Imagine paying an extra $9 on your next 30 ml bottle of e-liquid. While Minnesota’s existing system of taxation for e-cigarettes is inappropriate, this taxation system will raise your costs and should be rejected.

This bill has been referred to the Senate Taxes Committee and could be set for a hearing as early as next week. The Taxes Committee generally meets Monday through Friday at 8:30 AM in Saint Paul, so if you are able to attend, please be ready for an early morning.

Please take 3 minutes to send a fully editable email urging your senator to oppose this bill.

• Oppose an Increase in Vapor Taxes in Minnesota
  • Send an Email

If you live in a district represented by someone on the committee, you will receive an additional alert prompting you to take action. It is vitally important that you especially take action due to the fact that legislators consider the views of their constituents with greater weight.



Call to Action: CASAA: Minnesota Call to Action: Oppose SF2025 that would enact a 30 cent per ml tax on vapor products

ECF Discussion: Minnesota Call to Action: Oppose SF 2025 that would enact a 30 cent per ml tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum

_______________________
UPDATE - CASAA has updated the Call to Action to include a second campaign, this one for HF 2182: Send a Message

If you've already participated in the Call to Action for SF 2025, please take a moment to send an email for HF 2182. And if you lie in Minnesota and haven't done either . . . get busy.

Link to updated CTA: CASAA: Minnesota Call to Action: Oppose SF 2025 that would enact a 30 cent per ml tax on vapor products

Aslo: MNVA has updated its Call to Action to note:

The Senate Taxes Committee has scheduled SF2025 for a hearing. The committee will meet beginning at 8:30AM on Wednesday, April 15th at the State Capitol, Room 15. If you are able to attend this hearing to oppose the massive tax increase on e-liquid, please do so.

CASAA will be sending out emails to their Minnesota members this weekend to let them know about the hearing. If you can attend, please do so.

________________________
UPDATE: (Update - 04.15.15)

HF 2182 has been scheduled for an informal hearing on THURSDAY, April 16th at 10:15 AM in the House Taxes Committee. Although public testimony will not be heard, Minnesota Vapers Advocacy invites you to join them for a rally at the capitol. The gathering begins at 9:45 AM. In the interim, please continue to send emails urging lawmakers to oppose this bill.

SF 2025 has been taken off of the schedule for 4-15-15 Senate Taxes Committee hearing. However, this is not an indication that the bill is dead. It is still quite possible that SF 2025 will be rescheduled at a later date. Please continue to send emails urging lawmakers to oppose this bill.

Please take 3 minutes to send two fully editable emails urging your lawmakers to oppose these bills.

• Oppose an Increase in Vapor Taxes in Minnesota
  • Oppose SF 2025 - Send an Email
    
  • Oppose HF 2182 - Send an Email

_________________
URGENT UPDATE: Sunday, 4-19-15:

Heads up . . . new Call to Action . . . same lipstick, but on a different pig . . .

The vapor tax* language from HF 2182 has been added to an amendment that will be offered in the House Taxes Committee for HF 848. Public testimony will be heard.

This hearing is scheduled for

MONDAY, April 20th
12:00 PM
10 State Office Building
St. Paul, MN​

If adopted, this amendment would:

• Enact a 30 cent per milliliter tax on eliquid*
  
• Include devices and hardware in the state’s definition of “tobacco products.”

Please take action NOW by sending a message** to your state representative urging them to oppose this amendment.

• Oppose Vapor Taxes in MN - Send an Email

*Currently the tax on e-liquid in Minnesota is a 95% wholesale tax on nicotine. By altering the statute to tax the “consumable product” instead of just the nicotine contained in e-liquid, makes this is a huge increase.


** If you are a member of MNVA or any other state THR Advocacy association, please include that in the closing of your email as well.


Link to new Call to Action: CASAA: Minnesota Call to Action: Oppose an unjustifiable tax hike on vapor products (HF 848 Amendment)

ECF Discussion: Minnesota Call to Action: Oppose SF 2025 that would enact a 30 cent per ml tax on vapor products | E-Cigarette Forum


(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Maine
LD 1108 would deceptively redefine “smoking” to include “an electronic cigarette giving off vapor” for the purpose of including vaping in Maine’s anti-smoking law. Although current law provides an exemption for smoking in tobacco shops, the same exemption would not be afforded to vapor shops.

This bill is scheduled for a hearing in the Joint Health and Human Services Committee:

MONDAY, April 13th
at 3:00 PM
Cross State Office Building, Room 209​

Please take action NOW by sending an email to your district lawmakers as well as members of the committee.

• Oppose LD 1108 - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Maine Call to Action: Oppose LD 1108 which would ban vaping where smoking is currently prohibited.

ECF Discussion: Maine Call to Action: Oppose LD 1108 which would ban vaping where smoking is currently prohibited. | E-Cigarette Forum
___________________
NEW URGENT CTA

HP 670 would deceptively redefine “cigarette” to include “e-cigarettes” for the purpose of taxing e-liquid at the same rate as traditional cigarettes. If adopted, this bill would enact a tax of 10 cents per 18mg of nicotine contained in any amount of e-liquid.

Please take action now by sending a message to the committee as well as lawmakers from your district urging them to oppose this bill.

• Oppose vapor taxes in Maine - Send an Email

This bill is scheduled for a work session on:

Monday, May 11th
1:00 PM
State House, Room 127
Joint Committee on Taxation
​

The committee will probably not vote on the bill on Monday, so please continue to take action after the hearing, both by sending emails and calling your legislators.

Call to Action: CASAA: Maine Call to Action: Oppose vapor taxes (HP 670)

ECF Discussion: Maine Call to Action: Oppose vapor taxes (HP 670) | E-Cigarette Forum

____________________________________
(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, the system will time out and you will lose your work.

(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.

 

[Robino1]

URGENT - Lousiana
House Bill 427 would enact a 5 cents per ml tax on e-liquid as well as double the wholesale tax on smokeless tobacco from 20% to 40%. House Bill 252 would also tax e-liquid at 5 cents per ml but proposes a slightly lower wholesale tax on smokeless tobacco at 30%. While this new tax on e-liquid may seem modest, the long history of “sin” taxes has shown that once a “small” tax is on the books, it becomes far easier for future legislatures to hike that tax.

Please take action now by sending a fully editable email to your lawmakers urging them to oppose this tax bill.

• Oppose HB 427 & HB 252 - Send an Email

Currently, there are no hearings scheduled for these bills. Louisiana residents should monitor hearing announcements from the House Ways & Means Committee for updates.


Call to Action: CASAA: Louisiana Call to Action: Take action to oppose 2 bills that would enact

ECF Discussion: Louisiana Call to Action: Oppose E-Cigarette Tax Bills | E-Cigarette Forum

______________
URGENT UPDATE -
(Update - 06.10.15)

URGENT!​

The Louisiana Legislature is about to take its final steps on, HB 119, a bill that would impose an unnecessary and counterproductive tax on vapor products.

There is still time to stop it!​

In the next 24 hours, a conference committee made up of a total of six members from the House and Senate will meet to decide, among other things, whether to keep or remove (or possibly even increase!) the vapor products tax.

Even if you have already sent an email to your legislator, please send a second email to ensure that they know that this important hearing is happening.

Oppose HB 119 - Send an Email

___________________________________________​

If you live in one of the following districts which is represented by a member of the conference committee, please take action HERE.

Rep. Lance Harris (H - 25) - Send an Email

Rep. Harold Ritchie (H - 75) - Send an Email

Rep. Joel Robideaux (H - 45) - Send an Email

Sen. Jack Donahue (S - 11) - Send an Email

Sen. Robert Adley (S - 36) - Send an Email

Sen. Ben Nevers (S - 12) - Send an Email

Call to Action: CASAA: Louisiana Call to Action! Take action to oppose a new tax on vapor products (HB 119).

ECF Discussion: Louisiana Senate Finance Cmte approves $.05/ml tax on e-liquid, full Senate vote today | E-Cigarette Forum

(Writing Tip #1) If you have a lot to say, please craft your email in a separate word doc and then copy/paste it into the field provided. If you take too long, they system will time out and you will lose your work.
(Writing Tip #2) Although we've provided a prewritten email with compelling talking points, we would strongly encourage you to edit the email because personalized communications to legislators are far more persuasive than form letters. At a minimum, PLEASE INSERT YOUR PERSONAL STORY (just a few sentences) in the text of your email.