How Illegal Products Endanger Our Children

As a mother, my priority is protecting my children from dangerous, unregulated vapes flooding our communities. These products, designed to attract kids with sweet flavors, bright colors, and even video games, contain high nicotine levels and unknown chemicals, posing serious health risks.

Federal law requires nicotine products to be FDA-approved, but without a published list of legal products, illegal vapes dominate the market. Since 2020, Chinese government-controlled companies have been sending illicit vapes to the U.S., despite banning them in China. These vapes are disguised as toys and electronics to evade detection, continuing to infiltrate Montana despite federal efforts.

To address this, the legislature is considering a statewide vapor directory, listing only FDA-compliant products. This measure would keep harmful vapes off the market, protect children, and support responsible businesses.

As a mother, I refuse to let my children be targeted. Montana must act now to safeguard our kids and communities.

By: Nicole Chakos Billings, MT