HB 577: What Georgia’s Nicotine Vapor Products Directory Act Means for Your Vaping Business
Georgia’s vaping industry is facing a potential shake-up with House Bill 577 (HB 577), the "Georgia Nicotine Vapor Products Directory Act." Currently under review by the Georgia State Senate as of March 24, 2025, this bill aims to tighten regulations on nicotine vapor products by creating a state-managed directory of approved products. If passed, it will directly affect manufacturers, distributors, and retailers in the vaping industry—meaning business owners like you need to pay attention. Here’s what HB 577 entails and how it could impact your operations. At the time of this writing, the Georgia State Senate is reviewing HB 577.
Key Provisions of HB 577
Establishment of the Directory: The bill mandates the Georgia Department of Revenue (DOR) to develop and maintain a publicly accessible directory of nicotine vapor products authorized for sale in Georgia. Manufacturers are required to submit detailed certifications for each product, including proof of timely filed premarket tobacco product applications with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Manufacturer Responsibilities:
Certification Submission: Manufacturers must provide comprehensive information for each nicotine vapor product, such as brand names, product descriptions, and FDA marketing authorization documents.
Fees: An initial fee of $1,000 per product is required upon first certification, followed by an annual fee of $250 per product for subsequent years.
Restrictions on Sales:
Prohibited Sales: After a six-month grace period from the directory's publication, vapor product dealers and distributors are prohibited from selling nicotine vapor products not listed in the directory.
Existing Inventory: Products already in inventory before the directory's publication may be sold within the six-month grace period; however, products removed from the directory must be sold or returned within 30 days of removal.
Enforcement and Penalties:
Compliance Checks: The DOR is authorized to conduct unannounced compliance checks on vapor product dealers and distributors to ensure adherence to the new regulations.
Penalties: Violations can result in civil penalties, including substantial fines and potential license revocation for repeated or significant infractions. Non-compliant products may be seized and destroyed.
Annual Reporting: The DOR commissioner is required to provide an annual report to the Georgia General Assembly detailing the status of the directory, including products, revenue, expenditures, and enforcement activities.
5. Implications for Business Owners: Business owners involved in the manufacture, distribution, or retail of nicotine vapor products in Georgia should prepare for the following:
Compliance Requirements: Ensure all nicotine vapor products are listed in the state's directory by coordinating with manufacturers to submit necessary certifications and fees.
Inventory Management: Monitor the directory regularly to verify product listings. Develop strategies to manage inventory effectively, especially for products not listed or removed from the directory, to avoid potential penalties.
Operational Adjustments: Be prepared for unannounced compliance checks by the DOR. Implement internal compliance protocols to ensure adherence to the new regulations.
Don’t get caught off guard. HB 577’s journey through the Georgia Senate could reshape the vaping market—and your business. Stay ahead by tracking its progress, joining industry groups, and talking to a legal expert. Dive into the full bill here: https://www.legis.ga.gov/api/legislation/document/20252026/233487. Act now to adapt, and you’ll keep your business compliant and thriving in Georgia’s changing vape scene.
Disclaimer: The above is not intended to be legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Readers should contact their attorney for more information regarding HB577.