As cannabis consumers seek out more convenient and discreet consumption methods, products like vapes continue to gain significant market share. In fact, oil-filled vaporizers are one of the top-selling form factors at dispensaries. Disposable, all-in-one vape sales are growing rapidly within that category. However, a new bill may see these popular products disappear from one of the nation’s biggest weed markets.
RELATED: ‘Outrageous penalty’ would be overturned by new cannabis bill
Last week, California Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin introduced AB762. The bill would effectively ban single-use cannabis and nicotine vapes statewide. If passed, the measure would prohibit “a person from selling, distributing, or offering for sale a new or refurbished disposable, battery-embedded vapor inhalation device.”
The legislation stems from concerns over the growing amount of electronic waste (e-waste) containing lithium batteries and other toxic components. The batteries tend to spontaneously combust, causing dangerous fires. Meanwhile, the other chemical compounds within e-waste can pollute the planet.
“Disposable vapes are ruining our beaches, environment, and public health,” Irwin said in a statement.
California lawmakers enacted a measure last year that bans consumers from tossing vape batteries in the trash. Instead, they must be disposed of at a hazardous waste facility. Many cities offer designated e-waste pick-up days, while some people opt to drop electronics off at retailers like Best Buy.
RELATED: Latest Trump decision could have serious impact on weed
As part of the law, cannabis companies also had to change any packaging that described the products as “disposable.” Many retailers have launched vape collection programs to help consumers comply with the new regulations—though many batteries will likely still wind up in the trash.
Given the popularity of single-use vapes in both the tobacco and cannabis markets, AB762 could face pushback from industry trade groups. The bill could also set a precedent for other states where e-waste elimination is a priority. It remains to be seen how much support there will be for the measure within the California State Assembly, but vape companies will surely be keeping a close eye on its progress.
