🚨 Louisiana to Debate Controversial 33% Vape Tax Hike

A major showdown is brewing in Baton Rouge. On April 28, 2025, the Louisiana House of Representatives will debate House Bill 517, a measure that could more than double the tax burden on vapor products across the state. Sponsored by Rep. Ken Brass, the bill proposes increasing the excise tax on vaping products from $0.15 per milliliter to a hefty 33% of the invoice price—a dramatic shift with serious implications for consumers, small businesses, and public health policy. 

💰 What’s  in the Bill? 

House Bill 517 is part of a growing trend of states targeting vapor products with new tax structures aimed at curbing youth vaping. Under the proposed legislation: 

💼 The Pushback: Small Biz & Cross-Border Chaos 

But not everyone is convinced that the tax will work—or be worth the collateral damage. Critics of the bill warn that it may do more harm than good, especially for small vape shops, independent retailers, and adult consumers who use these products to quit smoking. 

“Addictions are rarely deterred by an increase in price,” said Rep. Jay Galle, expressing doubt that the tax would change behavior. 

Business owners across Louisiana echoed his concerns. Mike Donahue, CEO of ShopRite, noted that many consumers might simply take their business across state lines to places like Texas or Mississippi, where vape taxes remain lower or nonexistent. 

Amer Elhindi, manager of iRepair & Vape in New Orleans, added that higher prices could lead to decreased sales, making it harder for local vape shops to survive in an already over-regulated market. 

📉 What’s  at Stake? 

This proposed tax comes as Louisiana ranks 38th nationally in cigarette taxes, at $1.08 per pack. While traditional cigarette taxes remain relatively low, lawmakers are increasingly turning to vape products as a new tax revenue source—despite the role these products play as an alternative nicotine product for adults. 

There’s also concern that steep tax hikes on safer alternatives could reverse progress and effectively push adult vapers back to combustible cigarettes. 

⚖️ A Defining Moment