House Bill 2634, introduced by Illinois Representative Robert "Bob" Rita on March 19, 2025, seeks to amend the Preventing Youth Vaping Act, focusing on the regulation of electronic cigarettes. The bill aims to clarify the legal status of certain electronic cigarettes and establish new requirements for distributors and retailers.

The primary provision of HB2634 stipulates that electronic cigarettes first sold before August 8, 2016, and for which a pending premarket tobacco product application was submitted to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) by September 9, 2020, will not be classified as adulterated. This change is significant as it provides a pathway for older products to remain on the market, potentially easing restrictions for manufacturers and retailers.

Additionally, the bill mandates that any distributor, secondary distributor, or retailer selling electronic cigarettes must obtain a certification from the manufacturer confirming that the products are not adulterated. This certification must meet specific requirements, and the bill limits liability for distributors and retailers regarding false or misleading statements in these certifications. The Attorney General is granted the authority to enforce violations under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act.

The introduction of HB2634 has sparked discussions among lawmakers and public health advocates. Supporters argue that the bill could help stabilize the market for older electronic cigarette products, while critics express concerns that it may undermine efforts to reduce youth vaping by allowing more products to remain available. The potential economic implications include impacts on local businesses and the vaping industry, as well as considerations regarding public health funding and resources.

As the bill progresses through the legislative process, its implications for both the vaping market and youth health initiatives will be closely monitored. Stakeholders are expected to engage in further debates, and amendments may be proposed to address concerns raised during discussions. The outcome of HB2634 could significantly influence the regulatory landscape for electronic cigarettes in Illinois.