On September 1, the sale of certain disposable vapes will be banned throughout the state of Texas. While the move can be seen as a major victory for the environment, many business owners remain concerned about their future.

As the Dallas Morning News reported, Texas Senate Bill 2024 enacts a sweeping ban on a wide range of vape products that may limit the amount of harmful plastic waste and e-waste produced in the state. The ban targets vapes manufactured in or marketed from China as well as e-cigarettes that contain intoxicating substances other than nicotine, such as hemp-derived cannabinoids.

Violations of the ban will now be considered a Class A misdemeanor, which carries a penalty of up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $4,000 per offense. However, the penalties may become much more severe if vape products are sold to minors.

While the bill aims to protect minors from vapes and other substances, the move is seen as a massive blow to vape and THC retailers. Yelena Yuen, co-owner of The Glass House TX, explained the tough position that the legislation puts her in as a business owner. "It's not just me and my husband. We have to worry about our family and our employees, and that's what I worry about. I don't want to put them, or anyone, our customers, into a bad situation," Yuen said.

Disposable vape products have been seen as a large pollutor for years. Their plastic casings, non-biodegradable components, and hazardous materials like lithium batteries and nicotine salts can lead to substantial waste production. This can cause potential environmental damage from microplastic pollution and the leaching of chemicals into the ground and nearby waterways.

Vape bans can significantly reduce sales for local businesses, potentially forcing many independent shops to adjust on the fly or risk closing down. Hans Enriquez, owner of Lazydaze dispensaries, noted the impact that the ban will have on his business. "We do sell hemp vapes and concentrates, and with that bill passing, we will probably be losing that revenue," Enriquez said.

FROM OUR PARTNER Perk up the winter blues with natural, hemp-derived gummies Camino's hemp-derived gummies naturally support balance and recovery without disrupting your routine, so you can enjoy reliable, consistent dosing without guesswork or habit-forming ingredients. Flavors like sparkling pear for social events and tropical-burst for recovery deliver a sophisticated, elevated taste experience — and orchard peach for balance offers everyday support for managing stress while staying clear-headed and elevated. Learn more →

However, the business owner acknowledged that adapting to the current economic landscape shouldn't be too hard. "We were prepared to pivot and adapt. We absolutely would survive as a coffee shop while still providing a cannabis-themed experience," added Enriquez.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.

Cool Picks

How the Expedia of solar panels helps homeowners save money and avoid a common trap: 'Giving you confidence in the systems'

Major brand unveils ultra-efficient appliances to lower your bills every month: 'A new benchmark in efficiency and performance'

Revolutionary service helps households make money-saving HVAC upgrades: 'Can save you around 30-50%'

This innovative company will install solar panels on your roof with no upfront costs — here's how its business model works