Assembly Bill 2667 (Hadwick) awaits consideration by the Governor after passing the Legislature. The bill would ban vapes that are disguised to look like common school supplies and vapes containing video display devices. The bill also makes several changes to existing law to help schools and local household hazardous waste collection facilities manage and properly dispose of vapes, including those confiscated from students.
Vapes include batteries, circuitry, and fluid cannisters, all of which have different hazardous traits. As such, they can be extremely expensive for local HHW programs to manage, with costs often reaching $350 for a 5-gallon bucket. While the batteries and circuitry have value and are recyclable, the fluid canister is oftentimes considered acutely hazardous waste.
By banning the sale of disguised vapes and video game vapes, AB 2667 will help protect children, promote school safety, and reduce the risk of fires. The bill will also take the first steps toward providing the clear, implementable, and cost-effective solutions that schools and local governments need to manage this growing waste stream.
A broad coalition request for signature letter can be found here.
For more information, contact RCRC Senior Policy Advocate, John Kennedy.