California lawmakers unveiled a bill on Wednesday to ban disposable e-cigarette sales statewide by 2026, aiming to combat escalating plastic pollution and environmental hazards. The proposal targets single-use vapes, which make up 80% of e-cigarette waste in waterways, according to state data.
Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin emphasized the urgency at a Sacramento press conference:
These devices poison our environment and target youth with flavored chemicals. AB 762 stops 12,000 tons of toxic waste annually.
The bill imposes escalating fines starting at $500 for retailers who violate the ban, with enforcement beginning January 2026. Key environmental concerns include:
- Lithium-ion batteries causing landfill fires
- Heavy metals contaminating water supplies
- Non-recyclable plastic cartridges
Opponents like the California Grocers Association argue the measure could spike illegal sales. This disrupts state-regulated businesses,said Arkan Somo of the Neighborhood Market Association.
Where do environmental policies end? We’re creating new black markets.
California’s history of e-cigarette regulation includes:
- 2020 ban on flavored tobacco
- $7.6B in annual vaping-related healthcare costs
- 28% teen vaping rates as per CDC reports
Public Health Law Center attorney Carolina Saavedra praised the initiative: Disposable vapes offer no societal benefits while burdening communities with cleanup costs.Federal data shows 4.5 million disposable devices enter California’s waste stream monthly.
If passed, California would become the first U.S. state with a full disposable vape prohibition—joining Belgium and the UK in global efforts. Previous attempts failed in 2019 and 2022 amid lobbying opposition.