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Florida cracks down on youth-targeted nicotine products with new compliance directory, harsh penalties for violating the law

Tallahassee, Florida – The Florida Attorney General’s Office has unveiled the Nicotine Dispensing Device Directory in a major step meant to reduce youth access to nicotine. This new legislative tool includes nicotine dispensing devices banned for sale in the state because of their attraction to young people. Retailers have until March 1 to remove these products from their shelves in line with the state’s strict laws prohibiting goods appealing to young people.

The establishment of the directory comes after HB 1007 passed by the Florida Legislature in 2024, which gave the Attorney General authority to compile a list of nicotine dispensing devices deemed appealing to youngsters and so unfit for market participation. Over 150 notices concerning items falling under this category have been sent since its launch.

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Acting Attorney General John Guard emphasized the part the directory plays in protecting minors from nicotine exposure and addiction.

“We launched Florida’s Nicotine Dispensing Device Directory to protect children from harmful products and keep harmful products that are appealing to minors off shelves throughout the state. Devices listed on the directory are illegal to sell in Florida, and those who violate the statute face hefty fines,” said Guard.

Florida AG's Office has unveiled the Nicotine Dispensing Device Directory in a major step meant to reduce youth access to nicotine
Credit: Unsplash

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Violations of the law will result in significant financial penalties, he cautioned; fines for each non-compliant equipment may run up to $1,000 a day.

The standards for registering a device on the directory are rigorous and meant to pinpoint goods especially appealing to young people. Among the factors taken into account are the design of the gadget, whether it employs cartoon images or vivid colors, its simplicity of use and concealability by young people, and any marketing strategies specifically aimed at younger consumers. Furthermore excluded are any products utilizing deceptive trademarks akin to well-known candies or cereals or emulating the branding of popular consumer foods.

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The implementation of this guide is a component of a larger endeavor to reduce the risks connected with nicotine consumption in young people. Retailers have to follow the 60-day removal policy for any recently introduced products to guarantee timely adherence to the updated regulations. Maintaining the integrity of this project will depend on constant monitoring and compliance as the list expands.

Public access to the directory and related notices is available at MyFloridaLegal.com/NDD. This resource not only serves as a compliance tool for retailers but also as an informational platform for parents and guardians concerned about the availability of such products to minors.

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The Florida Attorney General’s Office’s proactive approach emphasizes the state’s determination to fight underage nicotine intake and highlights the continuous legislative and regulatory initiatives to safeguard public health, especially among young people who are most vulnerable.

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