Directory Bill a Good Step toward Protecting Our Kids

As a mother, my greatest responsibility is protecting my children. Right now, Montana is being flooded with dangerous, illegal vapes designed to target kids. These products come in bright colors, candy flavors, and even include video games that reward vaping. Packed with high nicotine levels and unknown chemicals, they pose serious health risks to our youth.

Federal law requires nicotine products to be FDA-approved, but without a clear list of legal products, unregulated vapes dominate the market. Since 2020, Chinese government-controlled tobacco companies have been sending billions of dollars’ worth of illicit vapes to the U.S.—products banned in China but aggressively marketed here. These vapes are smuggled in disguised as toys and electronics, making it nearly impossible to track them.

While federal authorities are cracking down at the borders, illegal vapes still make their way into Montana. That’s why we need state action. A statewide vapor directory—listing only FDA-compliant products—would keep dangerous vapes off our shelves, protect kids, and support responsible businesses.

As a mother, I refuse to stand by while my children are targeted by foreign companies profiting off their addiction. Montana must take action now to protect our kids and communities.

By: Bre Reitler Billings, MT