New regulations could hurt local vaping industry - WAAY

As of Monday, the FDA is regulating vaping like tobacco. That means permits and fees, which could drive up costs for customers.

Donnie Blair, one of the owners of "Kickin My Habit" Vapors in Huntsville, says the new regulations could hurt business, but more importantly, his employees.

The store opened in 2014, and since, has grown to three location, in Huntsville, Madison, and Decatur.

In Blair's words, "We have 13 employees and we're worried because everyone of them, they look to us to get a paycheck."

There are three main elements to the FDA's new rules.

One, stores can no longer give out free samples of flavors.

Two, new products have to be licensed by the FDA.

And three, in Alabama, no one under 19 can purchase anything.

In a statement, the FDA says "This action is a milestone for consumer protection.