North Carolina is one of only seven states that doesn't require retailers to get a permit to sell vapes, cigarettes, oral pouches or other nicotine products. Without a permitting system the state can't track compliance with the law, and it can't stop retailers from selling to minors.
Without permitting there literally isn’t a list of stores for law enforcement to inspect. A bill is pending to change this.
Nearly half (48%) of 10th grade students say it would be easy to get vaping devices if they wanted to. 22.2% of youth e-cigarette users report obtaining e-cigarettes from a vape shop or tobacco shop in the past month and 17.7% from a gas station or convenience store.
A strong retail licensing system means we can monitor where tobacco products are being sold and who they’re being sold to in North Carolina — especially to vulnerable youth.
A comprehensive retailer licensing system simply means retailers are required to apply for a license, pay a licensing fee, and be subject to inspection. Bad actors who consistently violate the law — not responsible retailers — face escalating penalties and fines, including possible license suspension or revocation.
A licensing system provides North Carolina with an official list of all nicotine and tobacco retailers throughout the state. This enables for consistent, fair enforcement of the law and provides important data to local communities and families. Licensing fees and fines fund the program, meaning there is little financial impact to the state’s budget.
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