Illinois Vape Law

In a compelling plea for public attention and legislative scrutiny, Matthieu Fortin, the owner of Upper Limits Midwest, Inc., highlights the dire implications of Illinois House Bill 5069 for small vape businesses and public health initiatives. Fortin, whose enterprise has been a staple in the Springfield community for over a decade, argues that the bill, ostensibly aimed at curbing youth vaping, will inadvertently pave the way for Big Tobacco to monopolize the market. The legislation threatens to obliterate the vaping industry in Illinois, potentially leading to substantial job losses, a significant decrease in state tax revenue, and restricted access to smoking cessation tools. With a firm stance against HB5069, Fortin urges stakeholders to consider the real-world consequences of such a policy, advocating for the protection of small businesses and the promotion of public health through accessible vaping alternatives.

The 2023 Economic Impact Report of the Vapor Industry in Illinois reveals substantial contributions to the state's economy, showcasing the industry's role in generating $544 million in output and creating 2,666 jobs. With a significant tax impact of $121.6 million, this report highlights the vital economic presence of the vapor industry in Illinois, emphasizing its importance to local communities, job creation, economic growth, and tax revenue generation.